When I was first diagnosed with ET (4 years ago) the medical staff advised I not take HU because it was "nasty stuff." Having spent these years reading about the nastiness. I have stable platelet counts of about 650, no clots and feeling well, so I've not taken HU. NOW my oncologist/hematologist want me to start on HU. Why? I'll continue NOT taking HU unless platelets increase. Maybe I'll get a second opinion and/or try other suggestions I've read about, like cranberry juice. Good luck and don't let stress worsen your health.