Cytodrox Capsule
Cytodrox Capsule is a medicine used to treat certain types of cancers, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and head and neck cancers. It is also prescribed for sickle cell anemia to reduce the frequency of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions.
Cytodrox Capsule
Basic Information
Important information about this medicine
About This Medicine
General information about this product
Cytodrox Capsule is a medicine used to treat certain types of cancers, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and head and neck cancers. It is also prescribed for sickle cell anemia to reduce the frequency of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions.
Cytodrox Capsule is a medicine used to treat certain types of cancers, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and head and neck cancers. It is also prescribed for sickle cell anemia to reduce the frequency of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions.
Cytodrox Capsule can be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine to stay well hydrated. Regular follow-up visits and blood tests are necessary to monitor your response to the medicine and check for any side effects. Take folic acid supplements if recommended by their doctor, as this medicine may reduce folate levels.
Common side effects of Cytodrox Capsule include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and temporary hair loss. Some people may also experience low blood counts, leading to tiredness, infections, or easy bruising. If you notice fever, chills, unusual bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your doctor immediately. Staying well-hydrated and following your doctor’s advice can help reduce the risk of side effects.
Cytodrox Capsule should be used with caution and only under medical supervision. It should be avoided during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, as it may harm the unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after stopping the drug. Men are also advised to use contraception during and after treatment, as the drug may affect sperm production.
Cytodrox Capsule may not be suitable for people with severe bone marrow problems or significant liver or kidney disease. Avoid live vaccines during treatment and limit exposure to people who are sick. Always inform your doctor about any other medicines or supplements you are taking before starting Cytodrox Capsule.
03Uses
Head and neck cancer
Treatment of Blood cancer (Chronic myeloid leukaemia)
Treatment of Sickle cell disease
Sickle cell anemia
04How To Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Cytodrox Capsule may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
05How It Works
In cancer, hydroxyurea inhibits the enzyme ribonucleotide reductase, which plays a critical role in the synthesis of DNA by converting ribonucleotides into deoxyribonucleotides. This inhibition disrupts DNA synthesis, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells, resulting in cell cycle arrest and reduced tumor proliferation. In sickle cell disease, hydroxyurea increases the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in red blood cells. Higher levels of HbF reduce the formation of sickled cells, improve red blood cell flexibility, enhance blood flow, and decrease the frequency of painful vaso-occlusive episodes and related complications.
06What If You Miss A Dose?
Q: What if you forget to take Cytodrox Capsule?
A: If you miss a dose of Cytodrox Capsule, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
07Benefits
In Treatment of Blood cancer (Chronic myeloid leukaemia)
Cytodrox Capsule helps manage chronic myeloid leukemia by controlling the excessive production of abnormal white blood cells. Reducing high white blood cell counts helps ease symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and spleen enlargement. This allows patients to feel more comfortable, lowers the risk of complications, and improves overall well-being.
08Side Effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Constipation
Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth)
Decreased appetite
Cholestasis
Hepatitis (viral infection of liver)
Hair loss
Bone marrow depression
Low blood platelets
Skin rash
Mucositis
09Safety Information
Alcohol:CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Cytodrox Capsule. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy:CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Cytodrox Capsule is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
Breast feeding:CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Cytodrox Capsule is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.
Driving:UNSAFE
Cytodrox Capsule may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur.
Kidney:CAUTION
Cytodrox Capsule should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Cytodrox Capsule may be needed. Please consult your doctor.Regular monitoring of kidney function and some blood tests may be advised while taking this medicine.
Liver:CAUTION
Cytodrox Capsule should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Cytodrox Capsule may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
10Drug Tips
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not change the dose or stop taking Cytodrox Capsule without your doctor’s advice, even if you feel better.
Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated while on treatment with Cytodrox Capsule. This helps support kidney function and may reduce side effects.
Routine monitoring is important to check your blood counts and ensure the medicine is working safely. Make sure to attend regular blood test appointments.
Do not receive live vaccines while taking Cytodrox Capsule, as your immune system may be weakened. Always check with your doctor before vaccination.
Cytodrox Capsule can harm an unborn baby. Both men and women should use reliable birth control during treatment and for a period after stopping the medicine (6 months for women, 1 year for men).
References
Sources and references
Hydroxyurea solution [Prescribing Information]. Leicester, UK: Nova Laboratories Ltd.; 2025. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Hydroxyurea [Prescribing Information]. Princeton, New Jersey: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company; 2021. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Hydroxyurea Capsules [Patient Medication Information]. Etobicoke, ON: Mylan Pharmaceuticals ULC; 2025. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Hydroxyurea [Product Monograph]. Montreal, Canada: Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada; 2020. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation: New Drug Approval List from SND Division (From 01/01/2024 to 30/04/2024). [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Hydroxyurea [Prescribing Information]. Mumbai, India: Cipla Ltd.; 2024. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Zeelab Pharmacy: Hydroxyurea [Product Information]. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
Admac Oncology: Hydroxyurea [Product Description]. [Accessed 23 May 2025] (online) Available from: View
