Good afternoon, @mam121555, my 1st dose of HU (500mg) was mid January, this year. I have had ET for about 5 years, or better. I was very leery, as I said because of the side effects. I reluctantly 'gave in' to my Oncologist recommendation and start HU in Mid-January. My Platelets have been up and down, showing little to no change. (1,200 - 1,600)
Starting this week, my regime will be 500mg daily and 1000mg on week-ends. I pray this will work for me. I have also noticed my hair thinning and increased fatigue, so I am not looking forward to the HU increase. I pray that all will be well with you, myself and others that have health challenges in our lives.