Description

Hydrea 500 mg hard capsules contain 500 mg of hydroxycarbamide (also known as hydroxyurea) as the active ingredient. These capsules are used in the management of certain cancers and blood disorders.

**Primary Medical Uses:**
– **Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):** Hydrea is used in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, particularly during the pre-treatment phase and for palliative care. ([assets.hpra.ie](https://assets.hpra.ie/products/Human/12761/Licence_PA2239-021-001_05122024151342.pdf?utm_source=openai))
– **Cervical Cancer and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas:** Hydrea is indicated for use in conjunction with radiotherapy for the local control of primary squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (excluding the lip) and carcinoma of the cervix. ([medsafe.govt.nz](https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/h/Hydreacap.pdf?utm_source=openai))

**Drug Class or Type:**
– Hydrea is classified as an antineoplastic agent, specifically an antimetabolite. ([rxlist.com](https://www.rxlist.com/hydrea-drug.htm?utm_source=openai))

**General Mechanism of Action:**
– Hydrea works by inhibiting the enzyme ribonucleotide reductase, which is essential for DNA synthesis. This inhibition leads to a reduction in DNA replication, thereby slowing the proliferation of malignant cells. ([oriopharma.com](https://oriopharma.com/product/hydrea-500-mg-hydroxyurea-capsule/?utm_source=openai))

**Common Forms:**
– Hydrea is available in 500 mg hard gelatin capsules, which are opaque green and pink, imprinted with “HYDREA” and “830”. ([rxlist.com](https://www.rxlist.com/hydrea-drug.htm?utm_source=openai))

**Dosage Instructions:**
– **Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):** The recommended adult dose is 20–30 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, administered orally once daily. ([oriopharma.com](https://oriopharma.com/product/hydrea-500-mg-hydroxyurea-capsule/?utm_source=openai))
– **Cervical Cancer and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas:** Hydrea is used in conjunction with radiotherapy, with dosing schedules determined by the specific radiation protocol. ([medsafe.govt.nz](https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/datasheet/h/Hydreacap.pdf?utm_source=openai))

Dosage may vary based on individual patient factors, and treatment should be managed by a healthcare professional.

**Side Effects, Contraindications, or Interactions:**
– **Common Side Effects:** Hydrea can cause bone marrow suppression, leading to low blood cell counts, which may result in anemia, increased risk of infection, or bleeding. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin changes. ([rxlist.com](https://www.rxlist.com/hydrea-drug.htm?utm_source=openai))
– **Contraindications:** Hydrea is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to hydroxyurea or any of its components. It should not be used in patients with severe bone marrow suppression, such as neutrophil counts less than 2,500/mm³ or platelet counts less than 100,000/mm³. ([hemonc.org](https://hemonc.org/w/images/8/88/Hydroxyurea.pdf?utm_source=openai))
– **Drug Interactions:** Hydrea may interact with other medications, including didanosine and stavudine, increasing the risk of bone marrow suppression. ([cvs.com](https://www.cvs.com/drug-info/hydrea/500mg/cap/00003083050?utm_source=openai))

Regular monitoring of blood counts and organ function is essential during treatment with Hydrea.