Managing Lynparza Side Effects: Comprehending Symptoms and Coping Strategies
In the realm of cancer treatment, Lynparza (olaparib) stands out as a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat various types of cancer, including breast cancer, cancers affecting the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or peritoneum (lining inside the abdomen), prostate cancer, and pancreatic cancer [6].
While Lynparza offers hope for many, it's essential to understand its potential side effects to ensure proper management and care.
Mild side effects that may be experienced during Lynparza treatment include fatigue, weakness, diarrhea, headache, vomiting, not feeling hungry, altered sense of taste, cough, abdominal pain, dizziness, muscle or joint pain, infections of the respiratory tract or urinary tract, shortness of breath, constipation, heartburn, peripheral edema (fluid retention in the arms, hands, legs, or feet), and nausea [1].
Nausea, in particular, is a common side effect of taking Lynparza and was the most common side effect seen in clinical trials [3]. If your nausea is severe, your doctor may consider reducing your dosage of Lynparza, having you pause or stop taking the drug [4].
Anemia, a blood disorder in which red blood cell levels become low, is another common side effect of Lynparza treatment [2]. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, weakness, skin that's paler than usual, dizziness, cold hands and feet, chest pain, heart palpitations, and lack of energy [2]. During Lynparza treatment, your doctor will order blood tests to monitor your level of red blood cells. If you develop anemia, they may recommend iron supplements or vitamins. In severe cases, you may need a blood transfusion [5].
It's worth noting that some people taking Lynparza may develop serious blood disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), although this isn't common [1]. The potential long-term side effects of Lynparza include bone marrow problems such as MDS and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which are serious conditions affecting blood cell production [2].
Blood clots can occur in some people during Lynparza treatment, especially in those treated for prostate cancer [1].
In rare situations, some people who took Lynparza in clinical trials developed MDS and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [1].
While hair loss is possible while taking Lynparza, it wasn't seen in the drug's initial clinical trials [3].
Weight gain is not a side effect of Lynparza [3].
Allergic reactions occurred but were rare in clinical trials and can cause symptoms such as skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling under your skin, swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe [3].
In managing side effects, making changes to your diet and routines can help alleviate mild nausea. Your doctor may also suggest medications to help prevent and treat nausea [4].
In conclusion, while Lynparza offers a significant advantage in cancer treatment, it's crucial to be aware of its potential side effects. Patients on Lynparza usually require careful monitoring to manage and mitigate these risks [5]. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice and management.
References: [1] https://www.lynnparza.com/about/side-effects [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6896715/ [3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/olaparib-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20161255 [4] https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/how-cope-side-effects/nausea-and-vomiting-treatment [5] https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/how-cope-side-effects/anemia-treatment [6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-lynnparza-treatment-advanced-ovarian-cancer
- The prescription medication Lynparza, approved for various medical conditions like ovarian cancer, can cause common side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and anemia.
- Nausea was the most prevalent side effect seen during clinical trials of Lynparza, and in severe cases, a doctor may recommend reducing the dosage or taking a break from the drug.
- Lynparza treatment can lead to anemia, a blood disorder characterized by low red blood cell levels, causing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and paleness.
- In some cases, people taking Lynparza may develop rare but serious side effects, including blood disorders like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and blood clots, particularly in those with prostate cancer.
