INDICATIONS :
Hydroxyurea is used in the treatment of sickle cell anemia and head and neck cancer.
USES :
In cancer, Hydroxyurea works by blocking an enzyme (ribonucleotide reductase) which is required for synthesis of DNA. This prevents the cancer cells from growing and multiplying. In sickle cell disease, it works by increasing fetal haemoglobin (HbF) levels in red blood cells (RBCs). This helps the RBCs assume a normal shape, improves blood flow and protects against complications such as painful sickle cell episodes.
SIDE EFFECTS :
Azoospermia (absence of sperms), Decreased appetite, Fever, Oligospermia (low sperm count), Skin cancer, Bone marrow suppression, Hallucination, Convulsion, Peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness of feet and hand), Pulmonary fibrosis, Pulmonary edema, Pancreatic inflammation, Liver toxicity, Cutaneous vasculitis, Increased uric acid level in blood.
