Glourea 500 Capsules Capsule (Hydroxyurea) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Hydroxyurea is a strong medicine that works by slowing down or stopping the growth of certain cells in the body, including abnormal blood cells and cancer cells.

What is it used for?

Sickle cell disease (to reduce painful crises)certain cancers like chronic myeloid leukaemiasome types of skin cancerhead and neck cancer

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Cancer Treatment Sickle Cell Disease

How it works

Inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, blocking the conversion of ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotides and thereby reducing DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells. In sickle cell disease, it increases fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production, which inhibits polymerization of deoxygenated sickle hemoglobin and reduces hemolysis and vaso-occlusive crises.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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How to take this drug

Your doctor will decide your exact dose based on your body weight and condition. It is usually taken as one capsule (500mg) once a day, swallowed whole with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food. Do not open, crush, or chew the capsule — the powder inside can be harmful if it touches your skin. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, skip it and take the next one at the normal time. Do not take a double dose to make up for it. If you are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

What to watch out for

This is a very strong prescription medicine — never buy it from roadside sellers or take it without a doctor's supervision and regular blood tests. Do not share this medicine with anyone, even if they also have sickle cell disease. Always handle the capsules carefully — wash your hands after touching them and do not let the powder touch your skin or eyes. In Nigeria, you may find it sold as Glourea 500 Capsules.

Common Side Effects

Low blood count (you may feel tired
weak
or get infections easily)
loss of appetite
nausea or vomiting
darkening of the skin or nails
mouth sores

Serious Side Effects

Severe infections
unusual bleeding or bruising
or extreme tiredness — these may mean your blood count is dangerously low. Difficulty breathing
chest pain
or leg sores that won't heal — go to the hospital immediately.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking with other medicines that lower blood count such as some HIV drugs (like didanosine or stavudine) as this can cause dangerous complications. Live vaccines should be avoided while on hydroxyurea. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen side effects like nausea and put extra stress on your liver.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Hydroxyurea is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby, and both men and women should use reliable contraception during treatment and for some time after stopping.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to hydroxyurea
people with very low blood counts (severe anaemia
very low white blood cells or platelets)
pregnant or breastfeeding women
and people with severe liver or kidney problems should not take this drug without specialist supervision.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it tightly sealed and far away from children, as this medicine is very dangerous if swallowed accidentally by a child.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Glourea 500 Capsules