Information about Siklos (Hydroxyurea or Hydroxycarbamide)
Siklos is a brand name for the drug hydroxyurea, also known as hydroxycarbamide. It is a chemotherapy agent that is primarily used for the treatment of various blood disorders, including sickle cell disease. Hydroxyurea works by interfering with DNA synthesis, which can help in reducing the number of abnormal cells in the body and decreasing the symptoms associated with certain conditions like sickle cell disease.
Product Highlights
- Siklos is primarily used to manage sickle cell disease, where it helps to reduce the frequency of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions by increasing the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in red blood cells.
- Siklos is used as a chemotherapy treatment for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), a type of blood cancer.
- It is also used to treat polycythemia vera, a condition in which the bone marrow produces an excessive amount of red blood cells.
- This condition, where the bone marrow produces too many platelets, may also be treated with hydroxyurea.
Key Ingredient
- Hydroxyurea (Hydroxycarbamide)
Key Benefits
- Siklos reduces the occurrence and severity of painful episodes in sickle cell disease.
- By promoting the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), it lowers the need for frequent blood transfusions in patients with sickle cell disease.
- Siklos can reduce the progression of certain blood cancers like chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and polycythemia vera.
- It can significantly improve the quality of life in patients with these chronic and potentially debilitating conditions.
Direction of Use
- Siklos is typically administered as an oral tablet.
- The dosage depends on the condition being treated, as well as the patient's age, weight, and general health.
- For sickle cell disease, the typical starting dose is 15 mg/kg of body weight per day, which can be adjusted depending on the patient’s response and tolerance.
- For chronic myelogenous leukemia, the dosage may be higher, often starting around 15-30 mg/kg per day.
- It is usually taken once a day, but patients should follow their healthcare provider’s specific instructions.
Safety Concerns
- Hydroxyurea can reduce the number of blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to risks such as anemia, leukopenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets). Ongoing blood tests are required to monitor this.
- There is a potential risk for developing secondary cancers, including leukemia, due to long-term use of hydroxyurea.
- Hydroxyurea can be harmful to a developing fetus, so it is contraindicated during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use contraception while taking this drug.
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are among the common side effects.
- Skin rashes and changes in skin pigmentation, as well as nail abnormalities, can occur.
- Kidney and liver function should be monitored, as hydroxyurea can cause damage to these organs over time.
Avoid Siklos (Hydroxyurea or Hydroxycarbamide) If
- Hydroxyurea is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding.
- You should not take Siklos if you are allergic to hydroxyurea or any of its ingredients.
- If you have a history of severe bone marrow suppression (such as low blood counts), Siklos may not be safe for you.
- Patients with serious liver or kidney problems should avoid using Siklos or use it under close medical supervision.
- Siklos may further weaken the immune system, so it should be avoided if there is an active infection.
