PARP inhibitors and prostate cancer

PARP inhibitors are targeted medicines that interfere with PARP proteins, which help cells repair damaged DNA. Cancer cells carrying certain repair defects may be more affected by this approach than cells without those changes.

The decision depends on the cancer's stage, genetic or genomic findings, symptoms and treatments already received. It is not based on the prostate cancer diagnosis alone. Difficulty passing urine can have several causes and should be assessed separately.

Ask whether tumour genomic profiling or inherited genetic testing is relevant, and whether the result changes the available options. Review all medicines with the team, including supplements, because interactions can matter.

During treatment, the team may monitor blood counts and organ function. Report tiredness that limits normal activities, nausea, appetite changes, bruising or other new symptoms. Do not alter the dose without clinical advice.

Call the oncology team promptly for fever, unusual bleeding, severe weakness, persistent vomiting, new breathlessness or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, inability to pass urine or heavy bleeding.

Ask what DNA-repair finding supports a PARP inhibitor, how response will be monitored, how it fits with other treatments and which symptoms require urgent review.