Hydroxyurea Flashcards
What type of drug is Hydroxyurea classified as?
Hydroxyurea is classified as an antimetabolite.
True or False: Hydroxyurea is an alkylating agent.
False: Hydroxyurea is not an alkylating agent; it is a ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor.
What is the mechanism of action of Hydroxyurea?
Hydroxyurea inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, leading to a reduction in deoxyribonucleotide synthesis. Prevents conversion of ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotides, halting DNA synthesis.
What is Hydroxyurea primarily used to treat?
Hydroxyurea is primarily used to treat sickle cell disease and certain types of cancer, such as chronic myeloid leukemia.
Fill in the blank: Hydroxyurea is often used in conjunction with __________ to manage sickle cell disease.
supportive care and transfusions
What are the common side effects of Hydroxyurea?
Common side effects include myelosuppression, gastrointestinal disturbances, and skin rashes.
In what type of cancers is Hydroxyurea commonly used as part of the treatment regimen?
AML, CML, and solid tumors like head and neck cancers.
True or False: Hydroxyurea can increase fetal hemoglobin levels in patients with sickle cell disease.
True: Hydroxyurea can increase fetal hemoglobin levels, which helps reduce sickling.
What laboratory monitoring is essential for patients on Hydroxyurea?
Complete blood counts (CBC) should be monitored regularly to assess for myelosuppression.
Which enzyme is inhibited by Hydroxyurea?
Hydroxyurea inhibits ribonucleotide reductase.
Fill in the blank: Hydroxyurea can be used in __________ to reduce the frequency of painful crises.
sickle cell disease
What is a serious potential complication of Hydroxyurea therapy?
A serious potential complication is the risk of secondary malignancies, particularly leukemias.
What is the dosing consideration for Hydroxyurea in patients with renal impairment?
Dosing may need to be adjusted in patients with renal impairment due to reduced clearance.
True or False: Hydroxyurea is safe to use during pregnancy.
False: Hydroxyurea is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects.
What is the effect of Hydroxyurea on white blood cell counts?
Hydroxyurea typically causes a decrease in white blood cell counts.
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Myelosuppression and increased infection risk.
Fill in the blank: Hydroxyurea is often administered __________ to enhance patient adherence.
once daily
What is the role of Hydroxyurea in polycythemia vera?
Hydroxyurea is used to reduce the risk of thrombotic events in patients with polycythemia vera.
What is a common contraindication for using Hydroxyurea?
A common contraindication is bone marrow suppression.
True or False: Hydroxyurea is effective in increasing the lifespan of sickle cell patients.
True: Hydroxyurea can improve the quality of life and reduce complications, potentially increasing lifespan.
What type of monitoring is required for patients on Hydroxyurea regarding liver function?
Liver function tests should be monitored periodically.
Fill in the blank: Hydroxyurea can lead to __________, which is a reduction in blood cell production.
myelosuppression and megaloblastic anemia.
What is the relationship between Hydroxyurea and fetal hemoglobin (HbF)?
Hydroxyurea stimulates the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps to prevent sickling.
What is the initial dose of Hydroxyurea for adults with sickle cell disease?
The initial dose for adults with sickle cell disease is typically 15 mg/kg/day.
True or False: Hydroxyurea can be used as monotherapy in chronic myeloid leukemia.
False: Hydroxyurea is often used in combination with other therapies.
What is the mechanism by which Hydroxyurea helps in sickle cell disease?
By increasing fetal hemoglobin levels, which reduces the sickling of red blood cells.
Fill in the blank: Hydroxyurea is contraindicated in patients with __________.
severe thrombocytopenia
What is the effect of Hydroxyurea on platelets?
Hydroxyurea can cause thrombocytopenia, or a decrease in platelet counts.
True or False: Patients on Hydroxyurea need to be monitored for skin changes.
True: Patients should be monitored for skin rashes or changes.
What is a key counseling point for patients starting Hydroxyurea?
Patients should be informed about the risk of myelosuppression and the need for regular blood tests.
What is the effect of Hydroxyurea on red blood cell counts?
Hydroxyurea can lead to a decrease in red blood cell counts due to its myelosuppressive effects.
