Hydroxyurea is used in combination with other antiretroviral agents in the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)
family (e.g. didanosine/ddI) to enhance the actions of these medications. It does not interfere with virus reproduction
directly. Instead, it depletes a substance necessary for viral replication allowing other drugs to interfere with virus reproduction more successfully.
When used in combination with other drugs, it will slow down the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
and may therefore slow the progression of HIV disease. It is not currently known how long the beneficial effects of this medication will last when used in combination with other antiretroviral agents.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
The dose of hydroxyurea is 500mg taken orally twice daily. It may be taken with or without food.
- Hydroxyurea is supplied as 500mg capsules.
- If you are unable to swallow the capsules, you can empty the contents of the capsule into a glass of water and drink it immediately.
It is important to drink a lot of water when you are on this medicine to ensure adequate hydration. This may decrease the chance of developing kidney stones.
Your dosage is:
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What should you do if you FORGET a dose ?
If you miss a dose of hydroxyurea, take it as soon as possible, then just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. If
you remember your missed dose close to the time for your next dose (i.e. within 2 hours) do not double your dose. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do about them?
The most commonly reported side effects include: diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, loss of
appetite, headache. Less common side effects include constipation, skin rash or itching, redness of skin. If you develop any of these symptoms, notify your pharmacist, nurse or doctor.
Hydroxyurea can lower white blood cells in your blood, which may make it easier for you to get infections. If you
experience fever, chills, cough, lower back or side pain or any pain or difficulty urinating, contact your physician, pharmacist or nurse.
Hydroxyurea
can also decrease platelets, which play an important role in blood clotting. If you notice any unusual
bleeding or bruising (e.g. nose bleeds, black or tarry stools, blood in urine or bleeding when brushing your teeth), notify your physician, pharmacist or nurse immediately.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Inform your physician of kidney disease prior to taking this medication.
It is important to tell your physician if you are pregnant, intend to have children or are breast feeding. It may not be
advisable to use this medication in these situations since there is a chance that it may cause birth defects.
Hydroxyurea may interact with other medications. It is important that your pharmacist and physician know about all
other drugs you may be taking, even medications that you can buy without a prescription .
How should this medication be STORED ?
Hydroxyurea capsules are sensitive to moisture and light. Keep in a tightly closed container at room temperature
(15-30?C). Do not store in your bathroom medicine cabinet. Protect from excessive light and moisture. Keep well out of reach of children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
