Which of the following is a side effect concern when using Hydroxyurea?

Which of the following is a side effect concern when using Hydroxyurea?

• A. Bleeding disorders
• B. Cardiac issues
• C. Gout flares
• D. Hair loss

Answer: (C)

Hydroxyurea is known to cause an increase in uric acid levels in the body, which can lead to gout flares. Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, often due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals. When determining the side effects of Hydroxyurea, healthcare providers are particularly attentive to the risk of gout and may monitor patients for symptoms or manage uric acid levels through medication or dietary changes. The other options, while they can present significant issues in different contexts or with different medications, are not typically associated with Hydroxyurea. Thus, the focus on gout flares highlights an important consideration in the management of patients undergoing treatment with this drug, underscoring the need for vigilance regarding metabolic disturbances during therapy.

Hydroxyurea is known to cause an increase in uric acid levels in the body, which can lead to gout flares. Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, often due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals. When determining the side effects of Hydroxyurea, healthcare providers are particularly attentive to the risk of gout and may monitor patients for symptoms or manage uric acid levels through medication or dietary changes.

The other options, while they can present significant issues in different contexts or with different medications, are not typically associated with Hydroxyurea. Thus, the focus on gout flares highlights an important consideration in the management of patients undergoing treatment with this drug, underscoring the need for vigilance regarding metabolic disturbances during therapy.