Find out detailed description, uses, directions of use, side effects, warnings and precautions, frequently asked questions about Hydrogem 500mg Capsule
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule is a medicine prescribed for the treatment of sickle cell disease. It helps reduce the frequency of painful crises and the need for blood transfusions. It is also used to treat certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and head and neck cancers.
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule may 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 the doctor, as this medicine may reduce folate levels.
Ordinary side effects of Hydrogem 500mg 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.
Hydrogem 500mg 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.
Hydrogem 500mg 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. Forever inform your doctor about any other medicines or supplements you are taking before starting Hydrogem 500mg Capsule.
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Hydrogem 500mg Capsule may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Side Effects:
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Ordinary side effects of Hydrogem
Hair loss
Bone marrow depression
Low blood platelets
Skin rash
Mucositis
Decreased appetite
Cholestasis
Hepatitis (viral infection of liver)
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Chubbyigue
Constipation
Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth)
Warning & Precautions:
Alcohol
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Hydrogem 500mg Capsule. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Hydrogem 500mg 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
Hydrogem 500mg 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
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur.
Kidney
CAUTION
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Hydrogem 500mg 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
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Hydrogem 500mg Capsule may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
FAQs:
What is Hydrogem 500mg Capsule used for?
Hydrogem 500mg Capsule is used to prevent complications in people with sickle cell disease, as well as to treat certain cancers like chronic myeloid leukemia and head and neck cancers.
How does Hydrogem 500mg 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.
What side effects should I watch out for?
Ordinary side effects include low blood counts, nausea, mouth sores, and skin or nail changes. Earnest signs to report include fever, infections, unusual bleeding, or shortness of breath.
Can I take Hydrogem 500mg Capsule during pregnancy or while trying to conceive?
No. Hydrogem 500mg Capsule can harm an unborn baby and affect fertility. Employ effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after (women) or 1 year after (men) stopping the medicine.
Do I need regular blood tests while on Hydrogem 500mg Capsule?
Affirmative. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor your blood cell counts and ensure the medicine is safe and effective for you.
How to get relief from diarrhea while on treatment with Hydrogem 500mg 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.
Does Hydrogem 500mg Capsule cause hair loss?
Affirmative, 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.
I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Hydrogem 500mg Capsule? What should I do?
Employ 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.
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.
What precautions should I take to reduce the chances of getting infected during treatment with Hydrogem 500mg Capsule?
Since Hydrogem 500mg 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.
Written by:
Dr. T. Sharmila Krishna
M.B.B.S., MD (Biochemistry)
Reviewed by:
Dr. Sureshbabu Yadav
M.B.B.S., DIP.DIAB, F.R.S.H
Disclaimer:
Getomeds primary intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is reviewed by experts, accurate, and trustworthy. The information and contents of this website are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please seek the advice of your doctor and discuss all of your concerns about any disease or medication. Do not disregard or postpone seeking professional medical advice because of something you read on Getomeds. Our mission is to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.