Olaparib
Olaparib is an antineoplastic agent that functions as an inhibitor of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes involved in DNA repair and transcription. It is used in the treatment of certain cancers by exploiting the dependency of tumor cells on DNA repair mechanisms. The medication is particularly relevant for tumors with defective DNA repair pathways.
Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor used to treat certain cancers by blocking DNA repair in tumor cells.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01XK01
- RxNorm
- 1597582
- Generic
- Olaparib
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Lynparza
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Olaparib is used to treat certain types of ovarian, breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. It is typically prescribed for patients with specific genetic mutations (such as BRCA mutations) that affect DNA repair mechanisms in cancer cells.
Olaparib inhibits PARP enzymes (PARP1, PARP2, and PARP3) which play crucial roles in DNA transcription and repair. By blocking these enzymes, the drug prevents cancer cells from repairing DNA damage, leading to cell death, particularly in cells that already have compromised DNA repair pathways.
Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and anemia. Olaparib may cause serious blood disorders and should not be used during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Regular blood monitoring and clinical assessments are recommended during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy