Kassam, AliyaAlgiraigri, Ali2015-11-182015-11-182015Algiraigri, A. (2015). A Meta-Analysis of Hydroxyurea Use for β-thalassemia: Implications for Clinical Practice and Medical Education (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/24785http://hdl.handle.net/11023/2643Chronic blood transfusion remains the most feasible therapeutic option for the majority of patients with severe β-thalassemia. However, it is associated with serious risks and complications. An alternative option is desirable and may prevent some of the problems associated with current therapy. Hydroxyurea (HU), an oral chemotherapeutic drug, is expected to increase hemoglobin, thereby minimizing the burden of blood transfusion and its complications. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of HU in patients with severe β-thalassemia. HU appears to be effective, well tolerated and associated with mild and transient adverse events; however, large randomized clinical trials (RCTs) should be done to confirm such findings. Nonetheless, based on the results of the present meta-analysis, it is recommended that current practice guidelines for severe β-thalassemia be appended to include a trial of HU.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.EducationEducationMedicine and Surgerymaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/24785