Indications
Talazoparib is a targeted cancer medicine taken by mouth. It is used in adults with HER2-negative, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer who carry a harmful inherited change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. In some countries it is also used together with Enzalutamide for certain types of advanced prostate cancer that no longer respond to hormone-lowering treatment. It is started only by a cancer specialist after genetic testing.
How It Works
Cells constantly repair small breaks in their DNA using enzymes called PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase). Cancer cells with faulty BRCA genes already have a weak repair system and depend heavily on PARP. Talazoparib blocks PARP and traps it on the DNA, so the damage builds up and the cancer cells die, while normal cells are affected less.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed by your cancer specialist. The dose depends on the type of cancer, kidney function and how well you tolerate the medicine, and it may be lowered or paused if blood counts fall. Swallow the capsules whole with water, with or without food, at about the same time each day. Do not open, crush or chew the capsules. If you miss a dose or vomit, take the next dose at the usual time; do not take an extra dose.
Interactions
Medicines that block the P-glycoprotein transporter, such as Amiodarone, Verapamil, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Clarithromycin and Cyclosporine, can raise talazoparib levels, and the dose may need to be reduced. Tell your doctor about all medicines, vaccines, herbal products and supplements you use. Avoid live vaccines unless your specialist agrees.
Contraindications
Do not take talazoparib if you are allergic to it or any ingredient of the capsule, or if you are breastfeeding.
Side Effects
- Low red blood cells (anaemia), causing tiredness and breathlessness
- Low white blood cells or platelets, with more infections, bruising or bleeding
- Tiredness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite
- Hair thinning or hair loss
Rarely, a serious bone marrow cancer (myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukaemia) can develop. Your doctor will check your blood counts before treatment and regularly during it.
Get urgent medical help if you have fever, chills or other signs of infection, unusual bleeding or bruising, blood in urine or stool, or severe weakness or shortness of breath.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Talazoparib can harm an unborn baby. Women who could become pregnant need a pregnancy test before starting and must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 7 months after the last dose. Men with partners who could become pregnant should use condoms during treatment and for at least 4 months after the last dose. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose.
Precautions and Warnings
Regular blood tests are needed. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, as a lower dose may be needed. The medicine may cause tiredness or dizziness, so take care when driving. Report any new symptoms promptly.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote. Taking too much may cause more severe nausea and lower blood counts. Contact a doctor or go to hospital straight away and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Antineoplastic agent, PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase) inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep in the original pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.