HYDLIEVA contains Hydroxyurea, an oral antineoplastic agent. It works by inhibiting ribonucleotide reductase, which interferes with DNA synthesis, slowing or stopping the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Hydroxyurea is used for:

1. Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) – to reduce high white blood cell counts

2. Polycythemia vera – to control elevated red blood cell counts

3. Essential thrombocythemia – to reduce platelet counts

4. Sickle cell anemia – to reduce frequency of painful crises and need for blood transfusions

Common side effects:

•  Nausea, vomiting

• Loss of appetite

•  Hair loss (alopecia)

•  Mouth ulcers

•  Bone marrow suppression (low blood counts)

Serious side effects:

•  Severe neutropenia or thrombocytopenia

•  Anemia

•  Liver function abnormalities

•  Rare skin changes or leg ulcers

•  Typical dose: 15–35 mg/kg orally once daily (dose varies based on condition)

•  Capsules should be swallowed whole

•  Dose adjustments may be needed for renal or hepatic impairment

NOTE: This medicine should be taken only under a doctor’s supervision.