Lynparza is a medicine that contains olaparib, a substance that inhibits the action of an enzyme responsible for repairing the DNA of cells during their multiplication. While normal cells have a mechanism that works in the absence of this enzyme and uses the BRCA 1 and BRCA2 proteins, the cancer cells in the ovary do not and therefore can not multiply and eventually disappear.
Thus, Lynparza is used to treat ovarian cancer, delaying its development. This medicine can be bought in the conventional pharmacies with a prescription, in the form of 50 mg capsules.
Price
This drug has already been approved for use in Brazil by Anvisa, however, it is not yet on sale.
What is it for
This medication is indicated for the treatment of ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer or primary peritoneal cancer with BRCA mutation.
How to take
The recommended dose is 400 mg, that is 8 capsules, 2 times a day, totaling 16 capsules daily. This dose should be started up to 8 weeks after platinum chemotherapy.
Before initiating treatment with Lynparza, the presence of the BRCA mutation must be confirmed. Therefore, the medicine should never be used without the advice of a doctor.
Possible side effects
Some of the most common side effects of using this medicine include decreased appetite, headache, dizziness, reduced taste, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath and stomach pain.
In addition, development of anemia and other changes in blood test, such as reduction of lymphocytes, decrease of neutrophils, and increase in serum cratin and mean corpuscular volume are also common.
Who should not take
Lynparza is contraindicated for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic to olaparib or any of the other ingredients of the formula.