Definitive response on how to handle Hydroxycarbamide

[Ovingite]

Hi all,

Following my earlier post on the need for care in handling hydroxy, which generated a number of different responses, I decided to contact Medac Pharma, who manufacture them. This is their response, which I think is quite clear, but note the suggestion that we should wash hands before and after taking the capsules.......

Hydroxycarbamide should be handled with care. People who are not taking the medicine should avoid touching it to avoid skin exposure to the cytotoxic agent. Special caution should be taken for pregnant staff.

If the patient is taking the capsules we would advise to always wash hands before and after taking the capsules.

John

[susieq75]

Thanks John, that makes sense, it is really a precaution for others.

Take care now

Susan

[john0084]

I mentioned this to my consultant when he first handed me the tablets, he just shook his head. The leaflet that comes with the tablets is quiet scary though!

[azaelea in reply to john0084]

I mentioned it too and got the same response! Silent amusement, I would describe it like.

[Sand-Dancer]

Very interesting. I have always taken mine last thing at night then wash my hands. I do this because it is a toxic medicine and I don’t want to be in contact with my lovely grandchildren after handling it.

[Superwoman]

I always pop mine into a small plastic shot glass which a friend gave me it’s great just throw them down the old throat and swigg loads of water.

Jean

[Kelly2 in reply to Superwoman]

I do the same thing! No worries!