Is weight reduction possible whilst taking hydroxycarbamide for ET?

Even though this is a vanity question, but for those of us who stress out over gaining weight on this drug, I do hope there is a solution to my problem. I'm almost 70, but still very proactive in weight maintenance and exercise. After 15 mths on the hydroxy, and despite adequate exercise and weight watching, I have gained about 3 kgs. This I have learned that this is close to the average weight gain over a similar period of time. I have no idea whether this weight gain will continue over time or whether the sample study regrading weight gain had no subsequent follow-up.

So my question relates to (a)alternative medication that does not have this effect on weight, or alternatively, (b) a significant reduction re hydroxy dosage. Perhaps there is a special diet/ supplement that will help? I'm currently on 500mg/day and my platelets are down to 218,000. I see my haemo in 3 weeks time and have the opportunity to discuss this with him, but your insight will give me much needed ammunition.

Many thanks in advance.

[Nickthedevil]

It may not be of help as it sounds as though you are already conscious of what you eat, but having slowly increased in weight while on hydroxy I joined Slimming World and lost 2 stone. I have been taking hydroxy for 9 years.Karen

[redumbrella]

Hi, I am an almost 67 year old Male and have been have been on Hydroxy (500 mg daily) for about 3 years. I tend to put on weight if I am not careful. After a two month holiday in Canada over Christmas I put on a good stone or so. But with watching what I eat and daily walking (at least an hour each day) since I came back in mid January I have lost 9 lbs in six weeks. I find that I can lose weight while on Hydroxy albeit slowly.

Garry

[Hidden]

Hi 222 Bobby l also take Hydroxy and have gained 2 stone, lve had to change my diet significantly in order to feel better and look a little better so wjat do l eat well..... predominantly fish and all things veg no alcohol , dairy or wheat doesn't sound like fun, but l love it. Last but not least gym twice a week...Blessing stay well

Adiewon

[Hidden]

Hi Karen, Garry and Adiewon,I'm so pleased that you have all had positive weight loss experiences.. bravo to you all. This gives me hope that it is possible and I shall perservere.

Just aside and over this past week, I've been blaming the high humidity here as the reason for the scales not budging.

Soldiering on...

Best wishes, Anna

[ChillyAsh34 in reply to Hidden]

I am 70 on hydroxycarbamide and gained a lot of weight I couldn't shift ,I joined slimming world a few weeks ago I have lost 1./2 stone so far

[Hidden]

Thanks for your reply ChillyAsh43. Good to hear your news. Looks like Slimming World is doing a great job. I'll check if they offer an online program, as I'm in Australia.

[CLONDARA]

Hi, I have maintained my weight with a combination of fasting and daily walks. I finish eating by 8pm and don't eat again until.at least 10am and regularly go until.12pm. I am 62.