PRV , hydroxy carbamide , osteoporosis link .

[maestromaverick]

I have just got back home after six days in hospital after fracturing my hip . Diagnosed withPRV 2and a half years ago and on and off hydroxy carbamide . Interspersed with venesections to try to keep my blood counts stable. The hydroxy doesn't like me and I don't like it , so many side effects and now apparently another one to add to the list . I am 55 years old and my hip should not have broken according to the bone man . I've had bone density tests done during my stay in hospital and have been told I have quite bad osteoporosis which they say is probably due to the hydroxy . Anyone else had this problem .

[JediReject]

Hi MaestroM - Sorry to hear you've been hospitalised and hope you're on the mend. Ive not been on Hydroxy as long as some peops, just over 6 yrs daily doses, but I must admit Ive not heard of any connection to osteoporosis so thanks for posting it up. I do have some pain in my right hip funnily enough so I'll be especially carefull not to take any chances in the icy weather.

I do just wonder if exposure to the drug could cause it so bad in such short a time or whether its made an underlying condition worsen, but as you say you may just be unlucky in that your body doesn't tolerate it. I hope you're going to request a change of meds to try and find a better one to suit you.

Keep well and I hope you have a good Christmas. Cheers

[maestromaverick in reply to JediReject]

Hi JediReject , thanks for your reply . Sorry its taken so long to respond but I was readmitted to hospital . Hamstring went into spasm but I'm home now and doing ok . The orthopedic consultant again said he thinks the osteoporosis is being caused by the hydroxycarbamide and said I need to discuss it with my haemotologist whom I due to see on the 17th of January weather permitting . Will let you know what he says. Thanks again and have a good new year and stay well .

[JediReject]

Gee mate you're going through it. Yes I think you need to change your meds quick sharp, I hope Hem can get you on something suitable. I've had a pretty miserable New Year which has been blighted by a productive cough which hasnt gone yet after 3wks. I find it hard to shift infections and they usually poleaxe me - all to do with impaired immune system and poor quality white cells associated with MF. Not as bad as you've been and at least Ive festered in me own bed, well mainly on the sofa. Hopefully be out for a few pints soon.

Good Luck at your appointment and I hope things improve for you.