Rucaparib
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Rucaparib
Summary
Rucaparib is used to treat certain types of ovarian and prostate cancers, especially in patients with specific genetic mutations. It's used for maintenance treatment of adult patients with BRCA-mutated recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have responded to platinum-based chemotherapy. It's also used to treat BRCA-mutated metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer in patients who have been treated with androgen receptor-directed therapy and taxane-based chemotherapy.
Rucaparib works by blocking enzymes called poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), which are involved in DNA repair. By inhibiting these enzymes, Rucaparib prevents cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death. This mechanism is particularly effective in cancer cells with existing DNA repair deficiencies, such as those with BRCA mutations.
The usual daily dose of Rucaparib for adults is 600 mg taken orally twice daily, totaling 1200 mg per day. The doses should be taken approximately 12 hours apart. Rucaparib is not approved for use in children.
Common side effects of Rucaparib include nausea, fatigue, anemia, increased liver enzymes, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Serious adverse effects include myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia (MDS/AML), which can be fatal.
Key warnings for Rucaparib include the risk of MDS/AML, which can be fatal. Patients should be monitored for hematological toxicity. Rucaparib can also cause fetal harm, so effective contraception is advised for both males and females during treatment. Patients should avoid sun exposure due to photosensitivity risk. There are no specific contraindications listed, but patients should discuss their full medical history with their healthcare provider.
Indications and Purpose
How does Rucaparib work?
Rucaparib works by inhibiting PARP enzymes, which are involved in DNA repair. By blocking these enzymes, Rucaparib prevents cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death. This mechanism is particularly effective in cancer cells with existing DNA repair deficiencies.
Is Rucaparib effective?
Rucaparib has been shown to be effective in clinical trials for the maintenance treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer and for treating metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer with specific genetic mutations. In trials, it significantly improved progression-free survival compared to placebo, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing these cancers.
What is Rucaparib?
Rucaparib is used to treat certain types of ovarian and prostate cancers, particularly in patients with specific genetic mutations. It belongs to a class of drugs called PARP inhibitors, which work by preventing cancer cells from repairing their DNA, leading to cell death. This helps slow or stop the growth of cancer.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Rucaparib?
Rucaparib is typically used until disease progression or until the patient experiences unacceptable toxicity. The exact duration can vary based on individual response and tolerance to the medication.
How do I take Rucaparib?
Rucaparib should be taken orally twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions, but it's important to take the medication at the same times each day. If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take an extra dose; continue with your regular schedule.
How should I store Rucaparib?
Rucaparib should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), away from excess heat and moisture. It should be kept in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Rucaparib?
The usual daily dose for adults taking Rucaparib is 600 mg, taken as two 300 mg tablets orally twice daily, totaling 1,200 mg per day. Rucaparib is not approved for use in children, so there is no recommended dose for pediatric patients.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Rucaparib with other prescription drugs?
Rucaparib can increase the systemic exposure of certain CYP1A2, CYP3A, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19 substrates, potentially increasing their adverse effects. If unavoidable, the dosage of these substrates may need adjustment. Warfarin users should have increased INR monitoring due to potential interaction.
Can Rucaparib be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Rucaparib and for 2 weeks after the last dose due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed children. It's important to discuss alternative feeding options with a healthcare provider.
Can Rucaparib be taken safely while pregnant?
Rucaparib can cause fetal harm based on its mechanism of action and animal studies. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. Men with female partners should use contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Pregnant women should be informed of the potential risk to the fetus.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Rucaparib?
Rucaparib may cause fatigue, which could potentially limit the ability to exercise. If you experience fatigue or any other symptoms that affect your ability to exercise, it's important to discuss this with your doctor. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and maintaining physical activity safely.
Is Rucaparib safe for the elderly?
Rucaparib has been used in clinical trials with patients aged 65 and older, and no major differences in safety were observed between younger and older patients. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects, so it's important for them to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider during treatment.
Who should avoid taking Rucaparib?
Key warnings for Rucaparib include the risk of myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia (MDS/AML), which can be fatal. Patients should be monitored for hematological toxicity. Rucaparib can also cause fetal harm, so effective contraception is advised for both men and women during treatment. Patients should avoid sun exposure due to photosensitivity risk.
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