Hydrea dosage – what you need to know

If your doctor prescribed Hydrea, you’re probably taking it for sickle cell disease or chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). The drug is called hydroxyurea and works by slowing down the growth of certain blood cells. Getting the dose right matters because too little won’t help and too much can cause trouble.

Starting dose and how doctors adjust it

Most adults begin with 15 mg per kilogram of body weight once a day, but many start lower – around 500 mg daily – to see how they tolerate it. After two weeks the doctor checks blood counts. If everything looks good, the dose may go up by 5‑10 mg/kg every 4–8 weeks until the target level is reached.

When and how to take Hydrea

You can swallow the tablet with water any time of day; food doesn’t change absorption much. Some people prefer taking it at night so a missed dose feels less disruptive. If you forget one, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next scheduled dose – then just skip the missed one and continue regular timing.

Hydrea can lower white blood cells, platelets, or red blood cells. That’s why doctors order a CBC (complete blood count) every 2–4 weeks at first, then less often once you’re stable. If counts drop too low, the dose is cut back until they recover.

Common side effects include mild nausea, mouth sores and occasional skin rash. Stay hydrated, chew sugar‑free gum if your mouth hurts, and tell your doctor right away about any fever or unusual bruising – those could signal a problem.

A practical tip: keep a small pillbox labeled with days of the week. It helps you see at a glance whether you’ve taken today’s dose. Pair it with a reminder on your phone so you never miss a check‑in.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should discuss Hydrea carefully with their doctor because it can affect the baby. If you’re planning to become pregnant, ask about alternative treatments or the safest way to pause the medication.

Bottom line: follow the dosing schedule your doctor sets, attend all lab appointments, and report any new symptoms fast. With the right dose, Hydrea can reduce pain crises in sickle cell patients and keep CML under control.