Lynparza

(Olaparib)

The active ingredient in Lynparza is olaparib. Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor that blocks the enzyme poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, which plays a key role in repairing damaged DNA. In cancer cells with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations or other homologous recombination repair defects, inhibition of PARP leads to accumulation of DNA damage and cell death. This selective mechanism allows Lynparza to target cancer cells while sparing many normal cells.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Lynparza. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lynparza:

Lynparza is taken by mouth, usually twice daily. The recommended starting dose of Lynparza is 300 mg taken twice a day, with or without food.

Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or split.

Avoid grapefruit, Seville oranges, and related juices, as they can increase olaparib levels.

If a dose is missed, take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.

Some mild or common side effects of Lynparza seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

Nausea and vomiting.

Fatigue or tiredness.

Anemia and other blood count changes.

Decreased appetite.

Diarrhea or constipation.

Dysgeusia (changes in taste).

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lynparza. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia, which have occurred rarely but can be fatal.

Pneumonitis, which may present with shortness of breath, cough, or fever.

Severe or worsening anemia, neutropenia, or thrombocytopenia.

Signs of drug-induced liver injury, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine.

Signs of venous thromboembolism, such as severe leg pain, swelling, or redness.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lynparza treatment. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Lynparza, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

A history of bone marrow disorders or low blood counts.

Lung disease or breathing problems.

Kidney problems.

Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding or plans to breastfeed.

Regular blood tests are required to monitor white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin during treatment.

There are no absolute contraindications listed for Lynparza. However, treatment should be avoided or discontinued in patients who develop severe hematologic toxicity or confirmed MDS or AML.

Lynparza begins working shortly after treatment initiation. Clinical benefit, such as delayed disease progression, is typically assessed over months during maintenance therapy or through imaging and laboratory monitoring.

When Lynparza is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors may increase olaparib exposure, increasing the risk of toxicity.

Strong or moderate CYP3A inducers may reduce olaparib levels and decrease effectiveness.

Grapefruit, Seville oranges, and orange juice can increase olaparib concentrations and should be avoided.

Lynparza tablets are available in strengths of 100 mg and 150 mg.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Lynparza is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

No, there are no generic versions of Lynparza.

Do not stop taking Lynparza unless instructed by your healthcare provider. Treatment may be interrupted or discontinued based on side effects, blood test results, or disease progression.

Lynparza can cause harm to an unborn baby. It should not be used during pregnancy. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose.

Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Lynparza and for at least one month after the last dose.