Have you been prescribed Hydroxyurea pills? Let's talk about this medicine (Hydroxyurea) in simple terms!

Has your doctor prescribed you a medication called Hydroxyurea? You may be a little scared when you hear this name. This is because it is also used as a type of cancer treatment (chemotherapy). But don't be scared. This medication is used to control the pain caused by conditions like sickle cell anemia, and for some other diseases. So today, let's talk about this medication in simple terms, what it does, and what you need to be careful about when using it.

The most important things to tell your doctor before starting medication

Before starting this medication, it is very important to give your doctor a complete picture of your health. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• If you have gout or have elevated uric acid levels in your blood.
• If you have HIV or AIDS .
• If you have kidney disease or are on hemodialysis .
• If you have wounds on your legs that won't heal .
• If you have liver disease .
• If reports have shown that you have low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in your blood .
• If you have previously received or are currently receiving interferon treatment .
• If you are scheduled to receive a vaccine soon.
• If you have an allergic reaction to this Hydroxyurea medicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a breastfeeding mother .

How exactly do I use this medicine?

You need to be very careful when using this medicine.

1. How to take the medicine: Take this pill with a glass of water, as prescribed by your doctor, at the prescribed time. If you have difficulty swallowing the pill, you can dissolve the pill in a teaspoon of water and drink it immediately. Do not stop taking the medicine or change the dosage for any reason without your doctor's advice.

2. Safe handling: This is very important. People who are not using this medicine, especially other people in the household, should not be exposed to it.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after handling the medicine bottle.
• If possible, wear disposable gloves when handling the medicine.
• If you accidentally spill some medicine on the floor, wipe it up with a damp disposable towel, put it in a sealable container, such as a plastic bag, and throw it away.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

Things you should be especially careful about when taking the medicine

It is very important to pay attention to changes in your body while taking this medication.

Infections

This medicine may slightly reduce your body's ability to fight disease. Therefore,

• If you develop symptoms such as fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-treat and call your doctor immediately.
• Try to stay as far away from people who have illnesses like colds and flu as possible.

Bleeding and Bruising

You may be more likely to bleed or bruise easily. Tell your doctor if you bruise easily, if your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, or if you notice any other unusual bleeding.

Protecting yourself from the sun

Your skin may become sensitive to sunlight while taking this medicine. Therefore,

• Avoid the harsh sun as much as possible.
• If you go outside, wear clothing that covers your body well and use sunscreen .
• Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.

Pregnancy and Having Children

This is a very important matter.

• Women: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping the medicine. Tell your doctor right away if you are planning to become pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
• Men: Avoid fathering a child while taking this medication or for 6 months after stopping the medication.
• Do not breastfeed your baby while taking this medicine.

What side effects might I experience?

Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Some of them are serious, some are not so serious. Let's be clear about that.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

How should you store your medicine?

• Keep it in a safe place out of the reach of small children .
• Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
• Throw away expired medicine.

Hydroxyurea, sickle cell anemia, chemotherapy, cancer treatment, medication side effects