Hydroxyurea

Drug Class

Antimetabolite (Ribonucleotide Reductase Inhibitor)

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Inhibits ribonucleotide reductase (↓ DNA synthesis) and raises fetal hemoglobin (HbF), reducing sickling.

Black Box Warning

Myelosuppression and malignancy — can cause severe bone-marrow suppression and is carcinogenic.

Clinical Notes

Disease-modifying in sickle cell disease (increased HbF -> fewer pain crises, fewer transfusions and acute chest episodes); also resistant CML. Monitor CBC; can cause fetal harm.

Source

FDA label

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