Any suggestions on what time of day is best for taking Hydroxyurea?

Chances of Hydrea side effects are low for most of us due to the low dosage needed to regulate our blood. However, some of us do have negative reactions. Hair loss is NOT a side effect of the medication in the dosage we need, but can be caused by stress and/or is age related (since most of us are upwards of 60). The mouth sores, which are a reported side effect, can be alleviated with proper hydration.

Thank you for this. I've just been on Hydrea for two weeks. How long before the symptoms start - ulcerations in the mouth, hair loss, and pain in various parts of the body (if any).

So far, it's just tingling on the tongue, and I take Acidophilus for that so that it doesn't get out of hand. Any info you have would be much appreciated.
Thank you.

I joined the PV club in 2018. I have been taking the "Hydra" for almost 6 years now. I started at 500 mg 2 times a day. My platelets are under control now (in the 277 range). I now take 500 mg once a day. I have taken it in the morning, I have taken it at later at night. I see no difference in the times. No matter when I take it, I get the ususal fatigue in the late afternoon and must go to sleep by 9pm. This makes it difficult to stay up late watching scary Halloween movies. I don't have many symptoms other than that. Hope my humble opinion will help. From Kentucky, where the bluegrass feels good under your barefeet.

I was told by my pharmacist and hematologist that it didn't matter when I take the hydrea. My first problem was getting the Hydrea dose right for me which took a bit of time. Then I started experimenting on the time of day that worked for me. I found around 6pm with or without food with 2 glasses of water back to back worked well. No more stomach discomfort and maybe it was part attitude because by this time I had quit feeling sorry for myself..Now I take the hydra without gagging and it doesn't bother me to take it, I take my baby asa at the same time without giving it much thought. Please ask all the questions your pondering..I found so many wonderful tips on this site and it reminds us
we're not alone in this journey.

@arecchie, welcome. I'm glad that you found something that works for you. I see you are a new member, so I'd like to point you to the Community Guidelines (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/)

Guideline number 1 encourages members to share what works for them, but to refrain from telling other people what they should do. Probiotics come in many different strains, doses and vary in quality. Here's a helpful guide:
- An introduction to probiotics https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/an-introduction-to-probiotics
- How to choose a probiotic https://store.mayoclinic.com/education/probiotics-for-digestive-well-being/

As @janetbender points out, one should always check with their doctor before starting supplements and get a recommendation on what may or may not be right for you. And for @et1055, milk may not be an option. All this to say, everyone is different. Tips are welcome. Be sure they are right for you. Experiences and information shared by members on the Mayo Clinic Connect are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the community.

Back to you @arecchie. What do you find is the benefit of taking Hydrea at night? Was a probiotic suggested for you to help control mouth sores?

@arecchie, welcome. I'm glad that you found something that works for you. I see you are a new member, so I'd like to point you to the Community Guidelines (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/about-connect/tab/community-guidelines/)

Guideline number 1 encourages members to share what works for them, but to refrain from telling other people what they should do. Probiotics come in many different strains, doses and vary in quality. Here's a helpful guide:
- An introduction to probiotics https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/an-introduction-to-probiotics
- How to choose a probiotic https://store.mayoclinic.com/education/probiotics-for-digestive-well-being/

As @janetbender points out, one should always check with their doctor before starting supplements and get a recommendation on what may or may not be right for you. And for @et1055, milk may not be an option. All this to say, everyone is different. Tips are welcome. Be sure they are right for you. Experiences and information shared by members on the Mayo Clinic Connect are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the community.

Back to you @arecchie. What do you find is the benefit of taking Hydrea at night? Was a probiotic suggested for you to help control mouth sores?