Is weight reduction possible whilst taking hydro... - MPN Voice

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Is weight reduction possible whilst taking hydroxycarbamide for ET?

7 Replies

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.

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7 Replies
Nickthedevil profile image
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 profile image
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

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

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 profile image
ChillyAsh34 in reply to

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

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 profile image
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.

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