Olaparib is a type of targeted cancer therapy known as a PARP inhibitor. PARP enzymes help repair damaged DNA in cells. Many cancer cells, especially those with certain genetic changes (such as BRCA mutations), depend heavily on PARP to survive. By blocking PARP, olaparib prevents cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death, especially in cells already weakened by other DNA repair defects.

This mechanism is particularly effective in cancers that have mutations in genes involved in DNA repair, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and other homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes. By exploiting the cancer cells' weaknesses, olaparib helps slow or stop the growth of tumors. It may be used alone or in combination with other medications, depending on the type of cancer.

Olaparib (Lynparza)

Common brand names

Approved use in