Hydroxyurea and fertility

[Fadood]

Hi every one , Im fady

31 years old male diagnosed with ploycythemia Vera since one year , I'm on hydroxyurea 500 mg daily . My question about the effect of hydroxyurea on fertility , it's reversible ??!because I'm not married yet I'm worried about it ..thanks in advance

[adiummy]

Hi Fadood, I took Hydroxyurea for a few weeks after my diagnosis when I was 27 and my doctor told me I should contracept for another year after discontinuation. Is Interferon or Anagrelide an option for you? As far as I know doctor's are hesitant to prescribe Hydroxy for younger patients...

[Fadood in reply to adiummy]

Thanks for your reply , but I think anagrlide is not suitable because of high hematocrite beside platlets .. I don't know about interferon I will ask about it..do you mean the effect on fertility can be reversible after stoppage ??

[adiummy in reply to Fadood]

I'm pretty sure about it, but better ask your hematologist for advise!

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

Hi Fady, the advice in the booklet is that: it is strongly recommended that you use contraception whilst taking hydroxycarbamide, because this medication can be harmful to a developing foetus. If you are planning to conceive or father a child you should stop taking hydroxycarbamide for a period of at least 3 months to allow the drug to clear from your system before trying to conceive. it is imperative to discuss your plans with your haematologist prior to becoming pregnant or fathering a child, your doctor can recommend treatment options for you that will not cause harm to a developing foetus. If you or your partner becomes pregnant while taking this drug please contact your doctor immediately.

I hope this helps. Maz

[Fadood in reply to Mazcd]

Thanks Maz very much for your reply , so it's effect is reversible , and if I stop it I can father a child? . And I should take contraception while taking it .

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

yes you can father a child providing you stop taking it 3 months before you try to get your wife pregnant, BUT you must talk to your haematologist about this, do not stop it without talking to him/her about it as you will need to be prescribed something else instead of the hydroxycarbamide. And yes you need to use contraception whilst you are taking it as it could harm a foetus. Maz