scalp problem in Hydroxy

[HazeBlue]

very dry scalp on Hydroxycarbamide!

Any one else with Et/PV have scalp problems?

my scalp is very crusty and I’m sure it’s the drug Hydroxy that’s caused this. Any advise welcome.

Haze.

[hunter5582]

Scaling and alopecia are both known HU adverse effects. Not sure if there are any moisturizers that would help on the scalp. Perhaps a dermatologist could make some suggestions. Do be sure to let your care team know. There are other options should you find Hu unsuitable.

[HazeBlue in reply to hunter5582]

been on Hydroxy for quite a few years . Definitely affecting skin and scalp. I did suggest change of drug but they said side effects with all the treatments. Some days I feel like stopping medication all together ! Have a frizen shoulder at the moment so feeling fed up.

Thanks for reply.

[hunter5582 in reply to HazeBlue]

It is up to you to determine which of your treatment options is most suitable based on your treatment goals and risk tolerance. We are all different in how our MPN presents and how we respond to treatment options. I was unable to tolerate HU, experiencing toxicity even at very low doses. I have done much better on the interferons, using Pegasys then switching to Besremi. The IFNs have been more effective and easier to tolerate.

If you would prefer the risk/benefit profile of another treatment option then it is your prerogative to pursue that. While it is true that all treatment options have potential adverse effects, you may well respond better to something else. The only way to know is to try.

Wishing you success in whatever you decide to pursue.

[HazeBlue in reply to hunter5582]

I will discuss treatments at next appointment . Thanks for replying.

[Mostew]

try coconut oil with a few drops of rosmary oil . Rub in and leave for about 20 mins before washing hair. Not tried it but meant to be good .

[Vaughan62]

I have been on Hydroxycarbamide for just over a year now and have not had major scalp problems although I think my hair is getting thinner. That could be old age!! I find the main side effect is fatigue. I need days off if something special is coming up and this could be connected with the MPN. I have been quite surprised at how easy Hydroxycarbamide has been. I also suppose it depends on the dose. I was on 1 tablet a day and platelets came down so I am now on 6 week.

[SueBas]

Hi there. I have been on Pegasys interferon since last November and have developed similar crusty scalp. The medication seems to have affected thyroid so thought that may be affecting dryness of skin. So hard to know what is causing what!!

[KentBee]

Hi, yes I used to have scalp problems , don’t know if Hyd caused it but Head and Shoulders One has dealt with effectively.

[Mirror368]

During 2021 I had 7 vaccines,,,,3 Moderna Covid, 2 Shingrix, flu, and DTap. At then at age 78 I then developed psoriasis on my scalp. I have had several dermatology prescriptions and symptoms lessened. I just had the Pfizer booster, dry winter weather is here, and I have been taking Hydroxyurea since June for ET/JAK2…so now more scalp dryness and crusting. So who knows the specific cause!

[HazeBlue in reply to Mirror368]

I’d say it’s the hydroxycarbamide for sure. My hair is so thin and scalp get thick skin patches . Fed up with it. GO dust seem bothered. I am starting wearing a wig now . Takes confidence but I am doing well. ET under control but still have to continue the dreaded pills . Hope you cope well on them . I’ve had them since 2013!

[Mirror368 in reply to HazeBlue]

what dose of Hydroxyurea are you taking?

[HazeBlue in reply to Mirror368]

2 a day five days and one on the other two days . 1000 and 500