Hydroxyurea (Systemic)
Brand Names : Hydrea, Droxia
Proper Use of This MedicineTake hydroxyurea only as directed by your doctor
. Do not use more or
less of it, and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. The exact
amount of medicine you need has been carefully worked out. Taking too much
may increase the chance of side effects, while taking too little may not improve
your condition.
For patients who cannot swallow the capsules
:
-
The contents of the capsule may be emptied into a glass of water
and then taken immediately. Some powder may float on the surface of the water,
but that is just filler from the capsule.
This medicine is sometimes given together with certain other medicines.
If you are using a combination of medicines, make sure that you take each
one at the right time and do not mix them. Ask your health care professional
to help you plan a way to take your medicine at the right times.
While you are using this medicine, your doctor may want you to drink extra
fluids so that you will pass more urine. This will help prevent kidney problems
and keep your kidneys working well.
This medicine commonly causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, it is very important that you continue to use the medicine, even
if you begin to feel ill.
Ask your health care professional for ways
to lessen these effects.
If you vomit shortly after taking a dose of hydroxyurea, check with your
doctor. You will be told whether to take the dose again or to wait until the
next scheduled dose.
Dosing - The dose of hydroxyurea will be different for
different patients. The dose that is used may depend on a number of things,
including what the medicine is being used for, the patient's weight, and whether
or not other medicines are also being taken. If you are
taking hydroxyurea at home, follow your doctor's orders or the directions
on the label
. If you have any questions about the proper dose of hydroxyurea,
ask your doctor.
Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, do not take
the missed dose at all and do not double the next one. Instead, go back to
your regular dosing schedule and check with your doctor.
Storage - To store this medicine:
-
Keep out of the reach of children.
-
Store away from heat and direct light.
-
Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other
damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
-
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure
that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
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