Ovarian cancer maintenance therapy: what to know

Maintenance treatment begins after an initial response or stable disease from surgery and systemic treatment. It may use a tablet or an infusion, depending on the medicine and your circumstances. The aim is to keep ovarian cancer controlled for longer, rather than to replace treatment needed for active progression. Selection can depend on tumour biology, prior treatment, side effects, other medicines, organ function, and your preferences. Genomic testing, including [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/), may help identify options.

Before starting, ask how the medicine is taken, how often monitoring occurs, and what happens after a missed dose. Keep a record of new symptoms and all medicines, supplements, and health conditions. Your team may check blood counts, kidney or liver function, blood pressure, or other measures. Report side effects early; dose changes, pauses, or supportive medicines may make treatment more manageable. [BRCA Genetic Testing](/treatments/risk-reduction-and-prevention/brca-genetic-testing/) may also be relevant to treatment discussions.

Call your treatment team about persistent diarrhoea or vomiting, marked tiredness, unusual bruising, fever, new breathlessness, chest discomfort, or a sudden change in vision. Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, heavy bleeding, or confusion. Do not stop maintenance treatment on your own; the team can advise whether symptoms require an interruption or assessment.

Why is this treatment being recommended for me? What benefit is expected? Which tests guide the choice? What side effects need same-day contact? How will response and safety be monitored? Are there alternatives if the burden becomes difficult?