Hydrea caps

[Tcperez]

Hi everyone

I started taking Hydrea last Saturday 500 mg a day

I want to know what is the best time on the day to take it ?

And what are the most common side effects?

Thank you in advance.

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

hi Tcperez, hope you are getting on ok with the Hydrea. This information on our website will help mpnvoice.org.uk/about-mpns/...

you can also download a copy of our information booklet

mpnvoice.org.uk/documents/t...

you can take it either before or after food, in the morning or the evening, whichever time suits you. Best wishes, Maz

[Dovme in reply to Mazcd]

Thanks Maz l hadn’t seen this HU booklet before it’s very informative and balanced

[hunter5582]

Here are a couple of the better monographs.

drugs.com/monograph/hydroxy...

online.epocrates.com/drugs/...

There is more to know regarding safe handling. Short version is to avoid exposing others to it as HU is a toxin. Wash your hands before and after taking it. If someone else handles the caps or the bottle, they should wear gloves. If you are sexually active, use a condom as HU passes into semen/vaginal secretions.

Some people, but not all, tolerate HU with relatively few problems. Some common side effects include: fatigue, dyspnea, asthenia, and mouth ulcers. You can see the rest in the monographs. If you do encounter side effects, be sure to let your doc know right away. You should be getting labs every two weeks when you initiate HU treatment (standard protocol). There should be plenty of opportunity to be in touch with your doc.

Hope that helps

[Eadaoin]

Taking it last thing at night is best for me. Only side effect is a bit of a challenge on my stomach/bowels but nothing serious. Hope all goes ok for you.

[Wyebird]

I was told at night because it makes you a little sleepy x

[Cyclemore]

Hi. I’ve been on H for two years and the main side effects for me are skin lesions, most likely exacerbated by having too much sun exposure throughout my life. I cut & bruise easily but that’s likely to be aspirin that I also take.

At a forum I attended in Newcastle the question came up about handling H and was answered very comprehensively by the attending pharmacist. I completely disagree with the other respondents comments on wearing gloves and washing hands etc, completely unnecessary, that’s why it’s in a capsule. D..

[follies]

My Dr told me most importantly to be consistent, and take after meal just in case you might get upset stomach. I take after breakfast as I am always at home and eat at same time each day. What I didn't know for a long time, is that Hydroxy Urea is toxic- so was your hands after touching pills.

I have never experienced any side effects. But be aware of any lesions on your legs (info from dermatologist). I put cream on my legs before going to bed.

Best of health!

[linphy]

I take mine in the evening, that way I'm sleeping a good few hours

[Tcperez]

Thank you.

[Doggy1903]

Good morning. Yes I have taken Hydrea for 2 and a half years. I take mine after breakfast each day. This seems to work well. side effects are varied but so far so good. no side effects. I have been told to report any sore mouth, leg ulcer or if you have any marked changes. Also if you noticed any bruising or unusual bleeding to let your team know immediately.

Really wish you well and hope this med brings your platelets down well.

Take care.