Indications
Rucaparib is a cancer medicine. It is used as maintenance treatment for adults with certain ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancers that have responded to platinum-based chemotherapy, and in some countries for certain advanced prostate cancers with BRCA gene changes. It is prescribed only by cancer specialists.
How It Works
Rucaparib blocks PARP enzymes, which cells use to repair damaged DNA. Cancer cells that already have faults in other DNA repair systems (such as BRCA gene changes) cannot fix the damage when PARP is blocked, so they die, while normal cells are affected less.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed by the cancer specialist, usually twice a day, about 12 hours apart, with or without food. Swallow tablets whole. The doctor may lower the dose or pause treatment if side effects occur. Do not change the dose yourself. If you vomit or miss a dose, take the next dose at the usual time.
Interactions
Rucaparib can raise blood levels of some medicines, such as Warfarin, Digoxin, certain statins and some medicines for diabetes or heart rhythm, so extra blood tests may be needed. Tell your doctor about all medicines, herbal products and supplements you use.
Contraindications
Do not take if you are allergic to Rucaparib or any ingredient, or while breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, taste changes, diarrhoea or constipation, stomach pain, anaemia (low red blood cells), low platelets, raised liver enzymes and sensitivity to sunlight.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of infection such as fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe tiredness with paleness or breathlessness, blood in the urine or stool, or severe vomiting. Rarely, serious blood disorders (myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukaemia) can develop, so regular blood tests are needed.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Rucaparib can harm an unborn baby. Women who could become pregnant must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
Precautions and Warnings
Blood counts are checked before starting and monthly during treatment. Liver tests are also monitored. Protect the skin from the sun with clothing and sunscreen. Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote. Too much may increase side effects such as nausea and low blood counts. Contact a doctor or hospital straight away.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic, PARP inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Handle as a cancer medicine: do not crush tablets.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.