Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea

The ins and outs of Hydroxyurea, a popular treatment option for individuals with sickle cell disease.

The ins and outs of Hydroxyurea, a popular treatment option for individuals with sickle cell disease.

What is Hydroxyurea?

What is Hydroxyurea?

Hydroxyurea is a drug (capsule) that was originally used to treat some forms of blood cancer (Leukaemia) and blood disorders that can later turn into Leukaemia. It has been used for over 15 years to treat sickle cell disease.

Hydroxyurea works in a few different ways, but the main way is to increase your body’s production of Fetal (baby) Hemoglobin.

We know that this then protects you against sickle cell disease. It is a safe drug and there is no evidence to suggest increases the risk of cancer in patients with sickle cell disease. Like all drugs, it does have some side effects, and you need regular blood test monitoring. Also, unlike painkillers which you take when required, Hydroxyurea must be taken every day to be effective.

Hydroxyurea is the only drug therapy available for sickle cell disease and has been shown to prolong survival, reduce pain episodes and some of the complications. Unless you have been told by a specialist that you have very mild sickle cell disease, you should consider going on the drug.

Why am I being offered this treatment?

Why am I being offered this treatment?

You are most likely to be offered Hydroxyurea because you have lots of painful crisis or Acute Chest Syndrome. It may also be offered if there is concern about damage to any of your body organs from the sickle cell disease, or as an alternative to blood transfusion treatment.

Other available treatments for sickle cell disease

Other available treatments for sickle cell disease

You are most likely to be offered Hydroxyurea because you have lots of painful crisis or Acute Chest Syndrome. It may also be offered if there is concern about damage to any of your body organs from the sickle cell disease, or as an alternative to blood transfusion treatment.

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North York, ON M3N 1W7


Phone: 416-745-4267


Email: info@sicklecellanemia.ca

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Location

Address: 235-415 Oakdale Rd. North York, ON M3N 1W7


Phone: 416-745-4267


Email: info@sicklecellanemia.ca

Got a Question?

Want to Support Us?

© SCAGO - All Rights Reserved -Disclaimer - Charitable Registration #: 83332 0872 RR 0001