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Pharmacology of Hydroxyurea (Hydroxycarbamide); Mechanism of action, Pharmacokinetics, Uses, Effects

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Hydroxyurea, also known as hydroxycarbamide, is an antineoplastic agent used to treat various conditions, including sickle cell anemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), and polycythemia vera. Here's a brief overview of its pharmacology:

Mechanism of Action
Hydroxyurea works by inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme involved in DNA synthesis. This inhibition leads to a decrease in DNA production, which is particularly effective in rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells and sickle-shaped red blood cells in sickle cell anemia1.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Hydroxyurea is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 2 hours after oral administration.

Metabolism: It is minimally metabolized in the body.

Excretion: The drug is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.

Half-Life: The elimination half-life is approximately 2 to 4 hours.

Dosage and Administration
Sickle Cell Anemia: The typical dose is 15 mg/kg/day, divided into two or three doses.

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: The dose can vary, but a common regimen is 500 mg twice daily.

Polycythemia Vera: The dose is usually 500 mg daily.

Indications
Hydroxyurea is indicated for the reduction of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions in adults and children with sickle cell anemia. It is also used for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera.

Side Effects
Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, fevers, loss of appetite, psychiatric problems, shortness of breath, and headaches. There is also a concern that it may increase the risk of secondary cancers1.

Contraindications
Hydroxyurea is contraindicated in patients with bone marrow suppression, severe renal impairment, and pregnancy

#Hydroxyurea #Hydroxycarbamide

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