Authors' reply.

Sir,

This is with reference to the comments on our article.[12] Respected reader has raised his/her concern on the criteria that merited its publication. In support of our published article, we humbly put forward the following:

The established drug efficacy studies/concepts need repetition in different gene pool/geographical area to verify the optimal results in diverse situations.[34] The repeated validation in dissimilar condition makes the established fact more relevant.

Apart from the efficacy of hydroxyurea, we also had our concern about safety aspects throughout the study period.[2]

Even the negative results are welcome in scientific community and some of the journals are fanatical for this job. We have conducted a scientifically sound, ethically approved, prospective study in sickle cell disease endemic tribal area which itself holds some logical merit to make a place in indexed journal.[5]

Our main objective was to recommend a wider adoption of hydroxyurea for treatment in areas of high prevalence of sickle cell disease, which is still lacking. The Indian Journal of Pharmacology has shown a full accountability and scientific conclusion to decide on this study in their much valued journal.