Hydroxyurea

Generic name: hydroxyurea [ hye-DROX-ee-yoo-REE-a ]
Brand names: Droxia, Hydrea, Mylocel, Siklos
Dosage forms: oral capsule (200 mg; 300 mg; 400 mg; 500 mg); oral tablet (100 mg; 1000 mg)
Drug class:Antimetabolites

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 14, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is hydroxyurea?

Hydroxyurea is used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia, ovarian cancer, and certain types of skin cancer (squamous cell cancer of the head and neck).

Hydroxyurea is also used to reduce pain episodes and the need for blood transfusions in people with sickle cell anemia. Hydroxyurea will not cure sickle cell anemia.

Hydroxyurea may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Both men and women using hydroxyurea should use birth control to prevent pregnancy. The use of hydroxyurea by either parent may cause birth defects.

Using hydroxyurea may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer, such as leukemia or skin cancer. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when you are outdoors.

Hydroxyurea can weaken your immune system. Call your doctor at once if you have a fever, chills, body aches, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, bruising, or unusual bleeding.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use hydroxyurea if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);

• liver disease;

• a wound or ulcer on your leg;

• HIV or AIDS (especially if you take antiviral medicine);

• high ...