Tag: Fetal hemoglobin

Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects approximately 100,000 people in the United States [1.9.3]. A key question for many is, 'Why hydroxyurea for sickle cell?' This medication is a primary therapy for reducing the disease's severe complications [1.2.3].

Studies show that patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) who take hydroxyurea can experience a significant reduction in painful crises and hospitalizations. However, the therapeutic benefits of hydroxyurea are not immediate, and for many patients, the question of 'how long does hydroxyurea take to work for sickle cells?' requires a nuanced answer that addresses both initial hematologic changes and long-term clinical improvements.