Hydroxyurea/Hydroxycarbamide

Indications & Dose:

In treatment of myeloproliferative disorders including chronic granulocytic leukaemia, polycythemia vera and essential thrombocytosis. Melanoma, metastatic or inoperable carcinoma of ovary. In combination with radiotherapy in carcinoma of cervix, head, neck and lung. 

DOSE

Adults

Solid tumours: Intermittent therapy: 80mg/kg as single dose every 3rd day. Continuous therapy: 20- 30mg/kg as single daily dose.

Carcinoma of head and neck (concomitant irradiation therapy): 80mg/kg as a single dose very 3rd day. Begin therapy atleast 7 days before initiation of irradiation therapy.

Resistant chronic myelocytic leukaemia: Continuous therapy of 20-30mg/kg as a single daily dose is recommended. 

Children Dosage regimens have not been established

Contraindications:

Pregnancy. Severe anaemia, marked bone marrow depression 

Side Effects:

Nausea, vomiting, rash, bone marrow depression is the major toxic effect, alopecia, stomatitis, dysuria. Inflammation and increased pigmentation may occur in areas exposed to radiation. Rare neurological disturbances

Cautions:

Precautions:

Monitor hepatic and renal functions. Haematological monitoring (including bone marrow). Premenopausal women, recent xray of cytotoxic therapy.

Breast-feeding: Use with caution.
Old age: May be given reduced dose.

Interaction:

Drugs
Lab Tests: May cause increase in serum uric acid, creatinine and BUN levels.

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Lactations:

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: