Olaparix

50 mg

150 mg

Generic Name:

• Olaparib

Brand Name:

• Olaparix (often marketed under this name, but may also be available as Lynparza in some regions)

Drug Class:

• PARP inhibitor (Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor)

Mechanism of Action:

Olaparib works by inhibiting PARP enzymes, which are involved in repairing DNA damage in cells. Cancer cells often have defective DNA repair mechanisms, and by blocking the repair process, Olaparib causes these cancer cells to die, especially those that already have a mutation (like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations), which makes them more reliant on PARP for repair.

Indications (Uses):

Olaparib is used in the treatment of several types of cancer, including:

1. Ovarian Cancer:

   • For patients with BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer, particularly after platinum-based chemotherapy.

2. Breast Cancer:

   • For patients with BRCA mutations who have HER2-negative breast cancer.

3. Prostate Cancer:

   • For metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations.

4. Pancreatic Cancer:

   • For patients with BRCA mutations in combination with chemotherapy.

It is often prescribed when these cancers have specific genetic mutations, typically BRCA1 and BRCA2, which make the tumor cells more sensitive to treatments that disrupt DNA repair.

Dosage:

• The typical dose for Olaparib is 300 mg twice a day (oral tablets).

• Dosage may vary based on individual factors, including the type of cancer being treated and how the patient responds to the drug.

Side Effects:

Common side effects include:

• Fatigue

• Nausea

• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

• Low white blood cell count (increasing risk of infection)

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Headache

Serious side effects:

• Bone marrow suppression (low blood cell counts)

• Lung problems (e.g., pneumonitis or inflammation of the lungs)

• Secondary cancers (e.g., myelodysplastic syndrome, leukemia, although rare)

Precautions:

• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Olaparib should not be taken during pregnancy, as it may harm the fetus. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding.

• Blood disorders: Patients with existing blood or bone marrow problems should use Olaparib with caution.

Interactions:

• Olaparib may interact with certain medications, including those that affect the CYP3A enzymes, like ketoconazole, rifampin, and some anticancer drugs.

• Grapefruit juice may affect how the body processes Olaparib.

Storage:

• Olaparib should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C to 25°C) in a dry place, away from light and moisture.