Hydroxyurea Description
Hydroxyurea Description
Generic Name : HYDROXYUREA
Pronunciation : (hye drox ee yoor ee' a)
Trade Name(s) : Gindrea, Hydab, Hydab, Hydrox-L, Neodrea, Urdox
Why it is prescribed: Your doctor has ordered the drug
hydroxyurea to help treat your illness. Hydroxyurea slows or stops
the growth of cancer cells in your body. In addition to hydroxyurea,
your doctor may have ordered other cancer-fighting drugs; this
treatment is called combination therapy. Your doctor may measure
the effectiveness of your treatment using laboratory tests and
physical examinations. In general, the length of treatment depends
on the types of drugs you are taking, how well your body responds
to them, and the type of cancer you have.
When it is to be taken: The purpose of chemotherapy is
to control your illness so that your own body can aid in your
recovery. It is important to build up your body's defense system,
and a balanced diet is needed to build a healthy body. Ask your
doctor for advice on your diet.
How it should be taken: The drug comes in capsule form.
If you cannot swallow the capsules, empty the contents into a
glass of water and drink it immediately. Hydroxyurea slows or
stops the growth of cancer cells in your body.
Special Instruction :
1. Your doctor may order tests before, during, and after treatment
to see if your blood cells are affected by the drug.
2. It is especially important to prevent infection and injuries.
Avoid people with contagious diseases such as the flu. Keep all
cuts and scratches clean.
3. Maintain good personal hygiene, including hand washing and
mouth care. To avoid injuries, shave with an electric razor instead
of blades and wear protective clothing (such as long pants and
gloves) when working in the yard and garden.
4. Do not take medications, especially those containing aspirin,
without your doctor's advice.
5. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.
Side Effects :
1. Although not everyone experiences side effects during chemotherapy,
some people do. If any of the effects becomes intolerable, let
your doctor know.
2. The most common side effect of doxorubicin is a decrease in
the number of blood cells. These cells include white blood cells
that fight infection, red blood cells that carry oxygen and energy,
and platelets that help clot blood and promote healing.
3. You may lose your appetite, or your appetite may be greater
in the morning or at different times during the day than usual.
Take advantage of these times and eat. Frequent small meals or
snacks throughout the day may be easier to tolerate and will help
you get the nutrients your body needs.
4. Other common-but temporary -discomforts are mild nausea and
vomiting. These problems usually lessen with subsequent doses
as your body develops tolerance to hydroxyurea. Your doctor may
have ordered ant nausea medication to prevent you from feeling
sick.
5. If you notice any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor
as soon as possible: fever, chills, cough, sore throat, bruising,
unusual bleeding or rash, and fatigue.
Other Precautions :
1. Avoid eating favorite foods, large meals, and spicy or hot
foods when you feel nauseated.
2. Hydroxyurea may affect your skin, especially if you have been
treated with radiation recently. If you develop a rash, it is
important to keep the area(s) clean and free from infection. Your
doctor may prescribe a cream or ointment.
3. Hydroxyurea also may affect the lining of your mouth, causing
redness, irritation, or sores. You may experience a sore throat
or mouth pain.
4. It is important to take regular care of your mouth to prevent
infection. Brush with a soft-brittle toothbrush or cotton swab.
Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol or lots of salt because
they cn irritate your mouth.
5. It is also important to eat well. Careful food selection will
allow your mouth to heal while providing good nutrition.
6. If your mouth becomes dry, eat moist foods, drink plenty of
fluids, and suck on sugarless hardy candy.
7. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and citrus juices.
Storage Conditions : Keep it out of reach of children in
a safe place.