Hydroxyurea is Not a Natural Substance
Hydroxyurea is a synthetic antimetabolite drug, not a natural substance. 1 It is a chemotherapeutic agent that has been used for over 30 years in the treatment of certain cancers, hematologic conditions, and sickle cell disease. 1
Chemical Nature and Development
Hydroxyurea (also known as hydroxycarbamide) is a synthetic compound that:
- Functions as an antimetabolite that inhibits DNA replication 1
- Is manufactured pharmaceutically rather than extracted from natural sources
- Is available in various formulations including capsules, fast-dissolving tablets, or compounded liquid 1
Medical Applications
Hydroxyurea has several important clinical applications:
- Treatment of psoriasis (though not FDA-approved for this indication) 1
- First-line disease-modifying therapy for sickle cell disease, particularly for HbSS and Sβ0-thalassemia genotypes 1, 2
- Management of certain myeloproliferative neoplasms 1
Mechanism of Action
The drug works through several mechanisms:
- In sickle cell disease, it increases fetal hemoglobin (HbF) production, which helps prevent sickling of red blood cells 1, 2
- In psoriasis, it inhibits DNA replication, affecting rapidly dividing cells 1
- Causes mild myelosuppression, which is monitored during therapy 1
Dosing and Administration
Hydroxyurea is administered as a synthetic pharmaceutical product:
- For psoriasis: Initial dose of 500 mg PO twice daily, potentially increasing to up to 3 g/day as tolerated 1
- For sickle cell disease: Typically taken once daily orally, with dosing based on patient response and monitoring of blood counts 1
Safety Considerations
As a synthetic medication, hydroxyurea requires careful monitoring:
- Regular blood count monitoring is essential (CBC with differential) 1
- Potential side effects include bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal symptoms, and dermatologic reactions 1
- Pregnancy category D - should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding 1
Common Misconception
A common misconception might be confusing hydroxyurea with natural compounds due to its name containing "urea" (which can be found naturally). However, hydroxyurea is entirely synthetic and manufactured as a pharmaceutical product, not extracted or derived from natural sources.
The evidence clearly establishes that hydroxyurea is a synthetic pharmaceutical agent developed for medical use, not a natural substance found in nature.