What does PARP inhibitor therapy treat?

PARP inhibitors block proteins that help cells repair certain types of DNA damage. Some cancer cells already have limited repair ability, often because of an inherited or tumour change involving BRCA or a related pathway. Blocking another repair route can make those cancer cells less able to survive. The treatment is not suitable for every person with the same cancer; tumour testing, inherited-risk testing, previous treatment, and overall health may affect the decision.

They may be used for Ovarian Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, or Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in specific situations. The medicine may be taken by mouth on a schedule set by the oncology team. Treatment can be used after other therapy or as maintenance, depending on the diagnosis and response.

Ask whether testing of the tumour or a blood sample is recommended and what the result means for relatives. Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and keep a record of fatigue, nausea, appetite changes, bruising, or breathlessness. Do not start supplements or new medicines without checking for interactions. Blood tests are commonly used to monitor blood counts and organ function while treatment continues.

Contact the oncology team promptly for fever, chills, unusual bleeding or bruising, worsening breathlessness, chest pain, severe weakness, or persistent vomiting. These symptoms can reflect infection, low blood counts, or another problem requiring assessment. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or confusion. Do not stop treatment without discussing side effects with the prescribing team unless emergency clinicians instruct you.

What test shows whether this medicine fits my cancer? Is the relevant change inherited or limited to the tumour? How will you monitor blood counts? Which side effects require a same-day call?