Hydroxyurea (Hydrea)
$1.52
Hydrea (Hydroxyurea) is used for certain blood cancers and to reduce painful crises in sickle cell disease.
Drug Information
5 reviews for Hydroxyurea (Hydrea)
Hydrea contains Hydroxyurea.
Hydroxyurea (also called hydroxycarbamide) is used for sickle cell disease and certain blood cancers.
In sickle cell disease, it reduces painful crises and the need for blood transfusions.
What is it used for?
- Sickle cell disease
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia
- Some other blood disorders, such as polycythaemia vera and essential thrombocythaemia
How does it work?
Hydroxyurea slows the production of fast-dividing blood cells. In sickle cell disease, it boosts foetal haemoglobin, which stops red blood cells from sickling.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- This medicine lowers your immune system, so you are more likely to get infections. Tell your doctor straight away if you have a fever or feel unwell.
- Avoid people with chickenpox, shingles or measles if you have not had them. Tell your doctor if you are exposed.
- Do not have live vaccines (such as yellow fever, MMR, BCG or oral typhoid) without your doctor's advice. Other vaccines, like flu and COVID-19, are usually recommended.
- It can raise the risk of some cancers, especially skin cancer. Use sunscreen, cover up and check your skin regularly.
- You will need regular blood tests.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy (including men planning to father a child) or breastfeeding.
- It can cause birth defects. Use reliable contraception during treatment and for some time after (men and women).
- Wear gloves or wash your hands after handling the capsules.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Hydrea can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Feeling sick
- Tiredness
- Skin darkening or nail changes
- Hair thinning
- Leg ulcers
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Fever, chills, sore throat or other signs of infection
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- New or changing skin spots or lumps
- Painful leg ulcers that do not heal
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it once a day, at the same time each day.
- Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not open it.
- The dose depends on your weight and blood tests, often starting at 15 mg per kilogram a day.
- Go to all your blood tests.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QWhy do I need blood tests on Hydrea?
- A
To check your blood cells, liver and kidneys, and sometimes the level of medicine in your blood, so any problems can be caught early.
- QCan I have vaccines while taking Hydrea?
- A
Most non-live vaccines, like flu and COVID-19, are recommended. Live vaccines should usually be avoided. Always check with your doctor.
- QWhat should I do if I get an infection on Hydrea?
- A
Contact your doctor straight away, even for something that seems minor, like a fever or sore throat. Infections can become serious more quickly when your immune system is lowered.

Amelie Wright –
The courier delivered it safely and on schedule. Everything was packed carefully and nothing was damaged. I am glad I tried this site.
John Cruz –
I needed to place an order in a hurry and this site made it easy. Shipping was fast for me. The confirmation emails were clear and arrived quickly. It was cheaper than my usual place, and the service was just as good. Overall very good, thanks.
Sofia Garcia –
Quick review of my recent order. The parcel arrived a day or two sooner than I figured. And the total I saw at checkout was the total I paid. Will be using this site again.
Pierre Le –
I was a little nervous about ordering Hydrea online, but it turned out fine. No complaints about the product. No surprise fees at checkout, which I appreciated. Overall, a smooth and simple experience.
Vikram Richardson –
I got my Hydroxyurea here and the experience was easy. Everything inside was snug and protected. Pricing was reasonable and there were no hidden charges. Thanks for the easy experience!