Hydroxyurea
Droxia is a prescription medication containing hydroxyurea, an antimetabolite that works by inhibiting DNA synthesis in cells. It is primarily used to reduce the frequency of painful crises in adults with sickle cell disease and is also employed in treating certain cancers, including chronic myelogenous leukemia. The medication requires regular blood monitoring and is typically reserved for patients who have already received appropriate treatments for their condition.
Droxia is a brand-name antimetabolite medication used primarily to manage sickle cell disease and certain cancers by affecting cell DNA synthesis.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 216755
- Generic
- Droxia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Droxia is FDA-approved to reduce the frequency of painful crises in adults with sickle cell disease and is also used to treat certain cancers such as chronic myelogenous leukemia and squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. It may also be used in combination with other antiretroviral agents for HIV management.
Droxia inhibits ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme essential for converting ribonucleotides to deoxyribonucleotides, thereby disrupting DNA synthesis. In sickle cell disease, this action promotes increased production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), which helps prevent red blood cells from taking on their characteristic sickle shape.
This medication carries significant risks including bone marrow suppression, severe anemia, and potential birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Regular blood counts are essential during treatment to monitor for toxicity. Patients should avoid live vaccines while taking Droxia and report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or severe side effects to their healthcare provider immediately.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy