Treatment Drugs for Erythrocytosis

Erythrocytosis, also know as polycythemia vera, is a myeloproliferative disorder characterized by an elevated level of red blood cells. Although the condition can be treated without the use of drugs, several medications do exist to treat the condition.

Symptoms

• According to the Arizona Telemedicine Program, symptoms of erythrocytosis include the ability to bruise easily, blood clots, bloody stools, headaches, fatigue, reddish skin, fever, weight loss, cell death (necrosis) in the extremities, and itchy skin.

Primary Treatment - Phlebotomy

• Although drugs may be used, one of the primary methods of treating erythrocytosis is a phlebotomy. This procedure works by removing the excess red blood cells manually.

Secondary Treatment - Drugs

• In some cases medications may be required to help treat the condition. According to the University of Arizona, these drugs can inlude Chlorambucil, Hydroxyurea and Anagrelide.

Common Uses

• Chlorambucil and Hydroxyurea are medications known as antineoplastic agents, and they are primarily prescribed to treat certain types of cancer. According to Medline Plus, they can cause a drop in blood cell count, hence their use for erythrocytosis. Anagrelide is a platelet-reducing agent, and is designed specifically for myeloproliferative disorders.

Side Effects

• According to Medline Plus, common side effects of Chlorambucil and Hydroxyurea include nausea, vomiting and other flu-like symptoms, as well as a rash, sores on the mouth, desensitization, and diarrhea, among many others. Side effects of Anagrelide can include all of the aforementioned ones as well as tinnitus, confusion, hives, chest pain and a myriad of others. If using these medications, discuss with your doctor the potential side effects.