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Sickle Cell Disease (Sickle Cell Anemia) »
Sickle cell anemia (sickle cell disease) is a disorder of the blood caused by an inherited abnormal hemoglobin (an oxygen-carrying protein within the red blood cells). The abnormal hemoglobin causes distorted (sickled) red blood cells. The sickled red blood cells are fragile and prone to rupture. When the number of red blood cells decreases from rupture (hemolysis), anemia is the result. This condition is referred to as sickle cell anemia. The irregular sickled cells can also block blood vessels causing tissue and organ damage and pain.
Sickle cell anemia is one of the most common inherited blood anemias. The disease primarily affects Africans and African Americans. It is estimated that in the United States, some 50,000 African Americans are afflicted with the most severe form of sickle cell anemia. Overall, current estimates are that one in 1,875 U.S. African American is affected with sickle cell anemia./...
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HYDREA (hydroxyurea) is a medication that must be handled with care. People who are not taking HYDREA (hydroxyurea) should not be exposed to it. To decrease the risk of exposure, wear disposable gloves when handling HYDREA (hydroxyurea) or bottles containing HYDREA (hydroxyurea) . Anyone handling HYDREA (hydroxyurea) should wash their hands before and after contact with the bottle or capsules. If the powder from the capsule is spilled, it should be wiped up immediately with a damp disposable towel and discarded in a closed container, such as a plastic bag. The medication should be kept away from children and pets. Contact your doctor for instructions on how to dispose of outdated capsules.
Last reviewed on RxList: 6/23/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
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