Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease in which the red blood cells in the body assume a sickle shape. The Mayo Clinic says that sickle cell anemia symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, delayed growth, yellowing of the skin and frequent infections. A stroke, blindness and organ damage are just some of the complications of sickle cell anemia, if left untreated.
Hydroxyurea
Hydroxyurea is a medication used to reduce the pain of sickle cell anemia, according to MedlinePlus. It also reduces the amount of blood transfusions necessary for a sickle cell sufferer. Specifically, this medication is an antineoplastic agent that works to alter the shape of the red blood cell. However, hydroxyurea also stimulates fetal hemoglobin, a red blood cell component that can actually prevent sickle cell disease, says the Mayo Clinic.
Hydroxyurea's side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, drowsiness and constipation. Hydroxyurea's serious side effects include a smelly substance that oozes from the skin, mouth or skin sores, and change of the skin and nails to a black, blue or purple color. Swelling of the feet, ankles, legs and hands are other serious effects.
Hydroxyurea is a capsule typically taken once a day.
Penicillin
Children with sickle cell anemia start taking the antibiotic penicillin starting at age two to prevent any potentially fatal conditions such as pneumonia, according to The Mayo Clinic. Penicillin is discontinued at the age of five.
Penicillin's common side effects include vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, a headache, a black or swollen tongue, white patches on the mouth or throat and vaginal discharge or itching. Penicllin's serious side effects include bloody or watery diarrhea, decreased urination, confusion, strange thoughts, skin peeling and seizures.
Penicillin is available as a liquid or tablet and must be taken as instructed.
Aspirin
Over-the-counter pain medications such as aspirin can also be taken to relieve sickle cell pain. According to MedlinePlus, aspirin is a salicylate medication that prevents the body from releasing certain substances like prostaglandin that cause fever, pain and swelling.
Aspirin's common side effects include vomiting, stomach pain and heartburn. Aspirin's serious side effects include bloody vomit, loss of hearing, a fast heartbeat, rapid breathing, black or bloody stools, ringing of the ears, bright red blood in the stools, trouble breathing and swelling of the tongue, face or lips.
Aspirin is a tablet taken every four to six hours as needed.
