At Children’s National Hospital, we understand that families affected by sickle cell disease have many questions about their child's treatment. We are dedicated to connecting you with information to help you understand how hydroxyurea can help children manage sickle cell disease.
Hydroxyurea is a medicine that prevents pain that occurs from sickle cell disease. It comes in pill and liquid forms.
Yes. Hydroxyurea has been used to treat patients with sickle cell disease for more than 30 years. Most children do not have serious side effects from hydroxyurea.
Hydroxyurea helps your child make red blood cells bigger so they are less likely to form in the shape of a sickle. This helps the blood flow better in the body and reduces blockages that can trigger a painful attack, known as a sickle cell crisis.
Hydroxyurea is not a cure for sickle cell disease, but there are many benefits for children, such as helping to reduce:
Our handy guide helps you through the hydroxyurea treatment process for sickle cell disease.
From dedicated pain clinics for older children to specialized infant sickle cell care, Children’s National delivers care and support to provide a sense of well-being and normalcy to children with sickle cell disease and their families. Discover more about the treatments we offer.
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The Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program at Children’s National is among the largest and most comprehensive pediatric sickle cell disease programs in the country.