olaparib

Olaparib is an orally administered drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It is a poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, which works by blocking the enzyme PARP, an essential protein involved in DNA repair. This inhibition leads to the accumulation of DNA damage, which can be lethal to cancer cells. Olaparib is approved for the treatment of ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and certain types of breast cancer that have specific genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. It is also being investigated for use in other types of cancer, including prostate, pancreatic, and endometrial cancers. Olaparib is typically taken once daily, and its effectiveness can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common side effects may include fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. Serious side effects can include an increased risk of infections and low blood cell counts. Olaparib is available under the brand name Lynparza and is manufactured by AstraZeneca. The drug was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014.