About
Olaparib is an oral poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor indicated for the treatment of various cancers, particularly those with homologous recombination repair (HRR) deficiencies, such as BRCA1/2 mutations. It works by trapping PARP enzymes on DNA single-strand breaks, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage and subsequent cell death in cancer cells that are unable to repair their DNA effectively. This mechanism, known as synthetic lethality, selectively targets cancer cells while sparing healthy cells to a greater extent.
It is commonly used in the management of advanced ovarian cancer, metastatic breast cancer, metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Olaparib is often prescribed as maintenance therapy after a response to platinum-based chemotherapy or as a treatment for patients whose tumors harbor specific genetic mutations, such as BRCA mutations, which make them more susceptible to PARP inhibition. Its efficacy is closely linked to the genetic profile of the tumor, making genetic testing a crucial step before initiation of therapy.
Uses
- Treatment of advanced ovarian cancer.
- Adjuvant treatment for high-risk HER2-negative breast cancer.
- Maintenance therapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer.
- Treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Directions For Use
Take this medication orally, usually twice daily, with or without food, as directed by your oncologist. Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew, crush, or split them.
Benefits
- Targets specific cancer cells with DNA repair deficiencies.
- Offers a targeted therapy option for various advanced cancers.
- Can extend progression-free survival in eligible patients.
- Available as a convenient oral formulation.
- Effective in patients with BRCA1/2 mutations.
- May reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in certain settings.
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
- Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
- Dysgeusia (taste disturbance)
- Headache
- Rash
- Musculoskeletal pain
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate certain side effects like nausea or fatigue, and could potentially interact with the medication's metabolism.
- Pregnancy - Olaparib is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose.
- Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Olaparib and for 1 month after the last dose, as it is unknown if the drug is excreted in human milk.
- Liver - Use with caution in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary. Regular liver function monitoring is advised.
- Kidney - Dose adjustments are required for patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. Close monitoring of kidney function is essential during therapy.
- Lung - Rarely, pneumonitis or interstitial lung disease can occur. Report any new or worsening respiratory symptoms promptly to your doctor.
Disclaimer
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Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
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