Olaparib
This page provides brief information on olaparib, covering its prescribed use, recommended dosage and administration, mechanism of action, associated brands and their strengths, precautionary warnings, and typical side effects.
Context and Approval Date
Olaparib was first approved by the U.S. FDA on December 19, 2014 for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer in patients with BRCA mutations. Since then, its approval has expanded to multiple cancers including breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.
Mechanism of Action of Olaparib
Olaparib works by inhibiting the enzyme PARP (poly ADP ribose polymerase), which cancer cells rely on to repair damaged DNA. Blocking PARP causes DNA damage to accumulate, leading to cancer cell death especially in tumors with BRCA1/2 mutations that already have defective DNA repair mechanisms.
All Substitutes
View All| Product | Packaging Size | Manufacturer | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lbyra 150mg tablet | 60 tablet | Zydus Cadila | INR 8050 |
| Olpaza 150mg tablet | 30 tablet | Intas Pharmaceuticals | INR 4350 |
| Ribaxa 150mg tablet | 60 tablets | Dr Reddy’s Laboratories | INR 5250 |
| Bracanat 150mg tablet | 30 tablets | Natco Pharma Ltd | INR 5250 |
| Brcaone 150mg tablet | 60 tablet | Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd | INR 14500 |
Uses of Olaparib
Olaparib is a targeted cancer medicine used mainly in patients with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiency (HRD). It is approved for ovarian, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, either as maintenance therapy after chemotherapy or as direct treatment in advanced cases. By blocking the PARP enzyme, it prevents cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death while sparing most healthy cells.
Olaparib administration guidelines and available dosage options
Administration Guidelines
Available Dosage Options
Information about olaparib
Olaparib uses
How olaparib works
Olaparib targets cancer cells by blocking a protein called PARP, which normally helps cells repair damaged DNA. Cancer cells rely heavily on PARP to survive. When Olaparib stops PARP from working, the cancer cells can’t fix themselves, so they die. This slows down the growth and spread of the cancer while sparing most healthy cells.Common side effects of olaparib
Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Olaparib
Olaparib carries important warnings and precautions: it can lower blood cell counts, harm an unborn baby, and interact with certain foods and medicines. Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, anemia, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal upset, while rare but serious risks include bone marrow disorders, lung inflammation, and liver problems.
Pregnancy risk: Olaparib can harm an unborn baby. Women must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose; men with partners of reproductive potential must use contraception for at least 3 months after the last dose.
Blood disorders: Rare cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been reported.
Lung problems: Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs) may occur; report persistent cough, fever, or shortness of breath immediately.
Liver toxicity: Severe liver problems have been reported; watch for yellowing of skin/eyes or dark urine.
Drug interactions: Avoid strong CYP3A inhibitors/inducers (e.g., ketoconazole, rifampin).
Food interactions: Avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges, as they increase side effects.
Blood monitoring: Regular blood tests are required to check red and white blood cell counts.
Infection risk: Lowered immunity increases susceptibility to infections; practice good hygiene and avoid sick contacts.
Bleeding risk: Use caution with activities that may cause injury; use a soft toothbrush and electric razor.
Breastfeeding: Not recommended during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
Kidney/liver disease: Dose adjustments may be required in patients with impaired organ function.
Nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue
Dyspepsia
Loss of appetite
Dizziness
Diarrhoea
Headache
Leukopenia
Acute myeloid leukemia
Warnings
Precautions
Side Effects
FAQ - Olaparib
1What is Olaparib used for?
Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor medicine used in the treatment of ovarian cancer and certain breast cancers. As an Olaparib tablets exporter in India, we supply this medicine to international patients who require reliable access to advanced oncology treatments.
2How does Olaparib work?
It blocks the PARP enzyme, preventing cancer cells from repairing their DNA. This leads to cancer cell death while sparing most healthy cells.
3When was Olaparib approved?
The U.S. FDA first approved Olaparib in December 2014 for advanced ovarian cancer. Approvals have since expanded to other cancers.
4How should Olaparib be taken?
It is taken orally, usually 300 mg twice daily (two 150 mg tablets), with or without food. Tablets must be swallowed whole.
5What are the common side effects?
Nausea, fatigue, anemia, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and headache are common. Rare but serious risks include bone marrow disorders and lung inflammation.
6What precautions should patients follow?
Regular blood tests are required. Avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges. Effective contraception is mandatory during treatment and for several months afterward.
