Hydrea?

6 Sep 2009

Yes. from http://www.drugs.com/enc/polycythemia-vera.html

Treatment of Polycythemia vera

The goal of treatment is to reduce the thickness of the blood and to prevent bleeding and clotting.

A method called phlebotomy is used to decrease blood thickness. One pint of blood is removed weekly until the hematocrit level is less than 45, then therapy is continued as needed.

Occasionally, chemotherapy (specifically hydroxyurea) may be given to suppress the bone marrow. Interferon may be given to lower blood counts. A medicine called anegrelide may be given to lower platelet counts.

The use of blood thinners (such as aspirin) is controversial because it may cause stomach bleeding.