Hi @PeterGadsby,
Completely understandable that a change in treatment stirs up some anxiety. Moving from venesection to hydroxycarbamide is a well-established step in managing Polycythaemia Vera, and lots of people on the forum have been exactly where you are now.
We have a good overview of how it works and what to expect on our Polycythaemia Vera treatment page and I hope you find it’s worth a read before you start. I’d also like to highlight the ‘Related’ topics at the bottom of this thread, which can link you to other, previous threads that might be relevant, for example the Hydroxycarbamide and venesection thread and this thread here as well.
I’m also tagging in a few community members who might be able to share their own experience of hydroxycarbamide - @Adw265, @Rammie18, @Duncan, @Maire, @Rose75. There’s no pressure at all, but if any of you have a moment and feel up to it, I know Pete wouldbenefit from your insight.
Take care,
Ceri - Blood Cancer UK Support Services