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Can I take Hydroxycarbamide and Naproxen together?

Drug interaction guide

Taking hydroxycarbamide and naproxen together can increase your risk of serious side effects, particularly affecting your blood counts and your kidneys. Both medications can lower the number of white blood cells and platelets in your body, making you more prone to infections and bruising or bleeding. Additionally, both drugs can put strain on the kidneys; naproxen can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, which may make it harder for your body to clear hydroxycarbamide, potentially leading to toxic levels of the medicine in your system.

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Why this happens

This is a 'double-hit' interaction. Firstly, both drugs have 'myelosuppressive' effects (they slow down blood cell production in the bone marrow). Secondly, naproxen can interfere with how the kidneys filter waste; since hydroxycarbamide is mainly removed from the body by the kidneys, any reduction in kidney function can cause hydroxycarbamide to build up to dangerous levels.

What you should do

You should speak to your doctor before taking these two medicines together. Your doctor may suggest an alternative painkiller, such as paracetamol, which does not affect the kidneys in the same way. If you must take both, your doctor will likely want to perform more frequent blood tests to monitor your kidney function and your blood cell counts. Seek medical help immediately if you notice unusual bruising, bleeding, a sore throat, or a fever.

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Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Clause de non-responsabilité

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

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Historique de l'article

Les informations contenues dans cette page sont rédigées et évaluées par des cliniciens qualifiés.

  • 25 janvier 2026 | Publié à l'origine
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