Olabir Tablets

 Olabir tablets contain the active ingredient olaparib, a type of targeted chemotherapy known as a PARP (poly-ADP ribose polymerase) inhibitor. It is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer.

1. Mechanism of Action: Olaparib works by targeting and inhibiting the PARP enzymes, which are crucial for repairing damaged DNA in cells. Cancer cells, especially those with certain genetic mutations (like in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes), are highly dependent on PARP to survive. By blocking these enzymes, olaparib prevents cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death. This targeted approach aims to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells.

2. Therapeutic Uses: Olabir (olaparib) is used in the treatment of various cancers, including:

• Ovarian cancer: It is often used as a maintenance treatment after a patient has responded to platinum-based chemotherapy.

   

   

• Breast cancer: Specifically, for certain types of metastatic or early-stage breast cancer with a BRCA mutation.

   

   

• Pancreatic cancer: As a first-line maintenance treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer with a BRCA mutation.

   

   

• Prostate cancer: For certain types of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.

   

   

3. Dosage and Administration:

• Olabir tablets are typically taken orally, twice a day, about 12 hours apart.

   

   

• The usual recommended dose is 300 mg (two 150 mg tablets) twice daily.

   

   

• The tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or dissolved.

   

   

• The medication can be taken with or without food.

   

   

• Your doctor will determine the exact dose and duration of treatment based on your specific condition and response to the medication.

   

   

4. Potential Side Effects: Common side effects of olaparib can include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

   

   

• Fatigue, dizziness, and headache.

   

   

• Decreased appetite.

   

   

• Changes in taste.

   

   

• Anemia (low red blood cell count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor these effects.

   
   

   

5. Serious Warnings and Precautions:

• Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) / Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Olaparib can increase the risk of developing these serious and potentially life-threatening blood cancers. Your doctor will monitor your blood cell counts closely.

   

   

• Pneumonitis: In rare cases, olaparib can cause severe lung problems, including inflammation of the lungs.

   

   

• Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Olaparib can harm an unborn baby. Women of childbearing potential and men with female partners should use effective contraception during treatment and for a specified time after the last dose.

   
   

   

• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Olaparib can interact with other drugs, especially those metabolized by the CYP3A enzyme.

   

   

• Grapefruit Juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit or Seville oranges, as they can increase the concentration of olaparib in your blood and lead to an increased risk of side effects.