Does Hydroxyurea affect kidneys?

[Mirror368]

I am 79 and diagnosed a year ago with ET JAK2. Previous to diagnosis my platelets were slowly rising and my kidney function was slowly decreasing. I have been taking 500 mg Hydroxyurea daily, then every other day, and now three days a week. Platelets are now 519.

I just had recent labs. All my kidney functions decreased and I am concerned. My primary says to wait until next six month labs.

Does Hydroxyurea cause kidney issues? Does anyone have this issue?

Eileen

[hunter5582]

The short answer is that yes, HU can cause renal impairment. Your PCP is the wrong provider to ask about this issue as managing HU is beyond the scope of practice for a PCP. This is an issue for a MPN Specialist to manage. While your decline in kidney function could be unrelated to the HU, it would not be advisable to wait 6 months to find out.

Note that hydration is very important to kidney function. it is even more important when taking a nephrotoxic medication. You should be drinking at least 64oz of water every day.

Suggest you contact your MPN care team and request a consult. they may refer you to a nephrologist for a more compote assessment. Meanwhile, drink lots of water.

Do please let us know how you get on.

[Trocken in reply to hunter5582]

I have a rare chronic kidney disease alongside ET, my platelet counts are similar to yours and I’m also on hydroxy. I’m under the care of a nephrology prof and a urologist, neither are concerned about the impact of hydroxy on my kidneys however what I would say is that we have to be extremely mindful of fluid intake as a result of both, as Hunter has said, however I have been advised to try and drink 4ltrs a day to keep the kidneys flushed through. Kidneys aren’t always very forgiving, are you in any pain at all? I wouldn’t be waiting 6 months, if your kidney function has decreased it would be worth requesting a nephrology / urology referral for investigation.