An expert panel from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) made recommendations for therapy with hydroxyurea in a pateint with sickle cell anemia (SCA).
Educate all patients with SCA and their family members about hydroxyurea therapy.
Decisions about hydroxyurea therapy should involve shared decision-making with patients. This should take into account the patients' values, believes and treatment burdens.
For the patient who has a clinical response, long-term hydroxyurea therapy is indicated.
Hydroxyurea therapy should be continued during hospitalizations or illness.
A lack of increase in MCV and/or HbF is not an indication to discontinue therapy.
Both males and females of reproductive age should be counseled regarding the need for contraception while taking hydroxyurea. In females who are pregnant or breastfeeding, discontinue hydroxyurea therapy.
Specialty: Hematology Oncology, Clinical Laboratory, Genetics