I've been on hydroxycarbamide for 9 months now and I'm still on the dose discovery stage, that means to say my clinicians still haven't decided what my dose should be.
Hydroxycarbamide is a long term medication that will be constantly monitored and adjusted if need be, in my case, eight weeks or sometimes six weeks, everyone is different.
October 13
It sounds like you're asking whether hydroxyurea (also known as hydroxycarbamide or Hydrea) keeps lowering platelets over time — great question!
Hydroxyurea is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for managing MPN-related high platelet counts. It works by slowing down the bone marrow's production of blood cells Show Full Answer
It sounds like you're asking whether hydroxyurea (also known as hydroxycarbamide or Hydrea) keeps lowering platelets over time — great question!
Hydroxyurea is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for managing MPN-related high platelet counts. It works by slowing down the bone marrow's production of blood cells, including platelets. For many people, hydroxyurea does continue to help control platelet levels over the long term. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Regular blood tests are essential so your care team can monitor your counts and adjust your dose as needed
- It doesn't work equally well for everyone — some people find it stops being as effective over time
- Side effects can sometimes make it difficult to continue
If hydroxyurea isn't controlling platelet levels well enough, or if side effects become a problem, doctors may consider switching to other options like interferon therapy or ruxolitinib (Jakafi).
Always check in with your hematologist if you feel your platelet counts aren't being managed as well as they should be — they can review your dosage or explore alternatives.
October 12
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