Hydroxyurea -Siklos

[Vassia Kalpogianni]

I would kindly like to request information regarding the use of the drug Siklos, which contains hydroxyurea, in terms of its administration to breastfeeding mothers. If there are available updated data or recommendations, I would greatly appreciate them.

Thank you in advance for your response.

[sally]

Hydroxyurea is rated an L3 -probably compatible. Hydroxyurea is an antineoplastic agent used to treat melanoma, leukemias, and other neoplasms. It interferes with DNA synthesis and repair at the cellular level. It also has been used successfully chronically for sickle cell anemia by inducing the production of fetal hemoglobin. It is well absorbed orally and rapidly metabolized to urea by the liver.

As this product is potentially toxic, an evaluation must be made in each individual to identify if the risks outweigh the benefit during chronic use. Withholding breastfeeding for 3 hours after administration may potentially reduce exposure, but for young or frail infants this may not be enough. For a more cautious approach, withholding breastfeeding for a period of at least 4-5 hours would substantially limit the infant's exposure.

We would also recommend discussing any medications a mother is taking with baby's pediatrician. Monitor Infant For:
Dizziness, fever, malaise, eczema. alopecia, mucositis, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, anorexia, changes in liver and renal function, leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia.


Sally Bain RN
Infant Risk Center