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 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.

Head and neck cancer

Treatment of Blood cancer (Chronic myeloid leukaemia)

Treatment of Sickle cell disease

Sickle cell anemia

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.

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.

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.

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).

Q. What is Cytodrox Capsule used for?

Cytodrox Capsule is used to treat certain cancers like chronic myeloid leukemia and head and neck cancers, as well as to prevent complications in people with sickle cell disease.

Q. How does Cytodrox Capsule help in sickle cell disease?

It increases the level of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps red blood cells stay in a normal shape, improving blood flow and reducing painful sickle cell crises.

Q. What side effects should I watch out for?

Common side effects include low blood counts, nausea, mouth sores, and skin or nail changes. Serious signs to report include fever, infections, unusual bleeding, or shortness of breath.

Q. Can I take Cytodrox Capsule during pregnancy or while trying to conceive?

No. Cytodrox Capsule can harm an unborn baby and affect fertility. Use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after (women) or 1 year after (men) stopping the medicine.

Q. Do I need regular blood tests while on Cytodrox Capsule?

Yes. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your blood cell counts and ensure the medicine is safe and effective for you.

Q. How to get relief from diarrhea while on treatment with Cytodrox Capsule?

Food items with soluble fiber can help relieve diarrhea as they help absorb excess fluid from the body. These food items include bananas (ripe), oranges, boiled potatoes, white rice, curd, and oatmeal. Diarrhea can cause dehydration in the body, so drink 8-10 glasses of water to avoid dehydration.

Q. Does Cytodrox Capsule cause hair loss?

Yes, while taking this medicine, your hair may become brittle and break. You may also experience patchy hair loss or thinning. These conditions tend to resolve once treatment is stopped. Be gentle when brushing and washing hair to manage hair loss.

Q. I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Cytodrox Capsule? What should I do?

Use a moisturizer to get relief from rashes and dry and itchy skin. Avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen (SPF of more than 15) whenever you step outdoors. Do not go swimming if you have a rash because the chlorine in the water can make it worse. Avoid hot water baths and wear loose cotton fabric clothes. Your skin will tend to improve once treatment is stopped.

Q. How to relieve constipation during the treatment?

To relieve constipation, include fiber in your diet (fruits and vegetables), drink 8-10 glasses of fluids a day, and keep active. A stool softener (with a doctor’s prescription) once or twice a day may prevent constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for 2-3 days, consult your doctor.

Q. What precautions should I take to reduce the chances of getting infected during treatment with Cytodrox Capsule?

Since Cytodrox Capsule lowers the number of white blood cells and platelets in your blood, it puts you at risk of getting an infection. To prevent infections, avoid people who have infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you may be getting an infection, or if you get a fever or chills.

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.

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

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.

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