POZ IRELAND
|
POZ IRELAND
|
|
|
HYDROXYUREA Hydrea Approved as an anticancer treatment. DESCRIPTION: Hydroxyurea is an anticancer drug approved for the treatment of certain cancers including leukaemia.. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Hydroxyurea may slow the production of new HIV. It may reduce the immune system hyperactivity seen in HIV infection. It has also been proposed that hydroxyurea is synergistic with antiretroviral therapy. SIDE EFFECTS: Hydroxyurea can suppress the production of blood cells causing problems such as neutropenia. Hydroxyurea can increase the risk of neuropathy if it is combined with ddI and d4T. A clinical trial of hydroxyurea combined with ddI, d4T and indinavir was halted after two people died of pancreatitis. Didanosine, stavudine and hydroxyurea should be suspended in people with suspected pancreatitis. As a cancer treatment, hydroxyurea is generally used at a higher dose than in HIV infection. In cancer, it induces bone marrow depression (leukopenia, anaemia), GI disturbances (anorexia, nausea, vomiting) and dermatological reactions (rashes). Headaches, fevers, chills, malaise and elevation of liver enzymes have also been reported. In HIV, there have been reports of anaemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. RESISTANCE: Resistance is unlikely to Hydroxyurea. However resistance to nucleoside analogues may reduce the benefits of hydroxyurea. INTERACTIONS: Trials so far have concentrated on hydroxyurea with ddI. Other information shows that hydroxyurea may enhance the effect of other antiviral drugs. |
Copyright © 2005 Poz Ireland |