I do not know of any way to prevent the oral toxicity from HU other than to discontinue it or possibly reduce the dose. I also experienced significant oral toxic effect from HU. Reducing dose did not help. The bleeding ulcers and damage to the tongue did not resolve until I discontinued the HU. It took about three months for the primary issues to resolve. The surface of my tongue was permanently altered, showing as geographic tongue.

I have done much better on the interferons. They have been more effective and much easier to tolerate for me. Note that we are all different in how we respond to these medications.

Hope you find resolution soon.

I don’t know how much hydrea you are taking, but it is important if you are on multiple capsules a day not to take them all at the same time.

Have your water ready when you put them in your mouth and wash them down quickly.

This helped me get rid of mine, and they haven’t come back. Could also ask your doctor for a prescription for Magic Mouthwash,

I hope they resolve for you.

I am so sorry you are having this problem, Dinah.

I take my HU with milk, after several sips to coat my tongue first. Maybe that would help?

Steve's suggestion is a good topic to raise with your doctor.