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Update: New drug combination for early treatment of some metastatic prostate cancer

Summary

The FDA approved Lynparza (olaparib) for use earlier in treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) when added to abiraterone and prednisone for people with a BRCA mutation found through genetic or tumor testing. Lynparza combined with hormone therapy may now be used as a first-line or later treatment. (Posted 9/11/23)

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New drug combination for early treatment of some metastatic prostate cancer
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RELEVANCE

Most relevant for: People with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer with a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2.
It may also be relevant for:

  • people with metastatic or advanced cancer
  • people with a genetic mutation linked to cancer risk
  • people with a family history of cancer
  • people with castration-resistant prostate cancer

Relevance: Medium-High

Research Timeline: Post Approval

Relevance Rating Details


What is this update about?

The FDA-approved Lynparza in combination with Zytiga () and prednisone (or prednisolone) as a treatment for castration-resistant cancer for people with or mutation found on genetic testing or tumor testing.

This approval is based on the results of a large clinical trial called the PROpel trial. Prior to the study participants had received to treat mCRPC  but no other hormonal agents or chemotherapy. Participants were divided into two groups. All participants received Zytiga and prednisone. Half of the participants also received Lynparza and the other half received a sugar pill ().

People who tested positive for a mutation responded especially well to Lynparza plus compared to those who had and . After eight months, people with a or  mutation who received Lynparza plus were more likely to survive and less likely to have their cancer progress.

About Lynparza

Lynparza is a type of known as a . Like other PARP inhibitors, it can be effective against cancers with mutations in and .

Lynparza () is a pill. The most common side effects, in order of frequency, are:

  • Low red blood cells (anemia)
  • Fatigue 
  • Nausea 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Decreased appetite
  • Low white blood cells (Lymphopenia)
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach pain

In the clinical trial that led to this approval, almost 1 of 5 people taking Lynparza needed to receive at least one blood transfusion. One of 10  required more than one blood transfusion; however, they were still able to continue taking the drug.

What does this mean for me?

If you have castration-resistant cancer (mCRPC), ask your doctor if Lynparza combined with Zytiga might be an option for you. Your doctor may recommend genetic counseling, genetic testing and tumor testing, or genetic testing for a mutation to see if you are eligible for Lynparza. If you have mCRPC and do not have a or you may still benefit from treatment with a .  You can find more information here.

Reference

approves with and prednisone (or prednisolone) for BRCA-mutated castration-resistant cancer. news release. May 31, 2023.

Disclosure: FORCE receives funding from industry sponsors, including companies that manufacture cancer drugs, tests and devices. All XRAYS articles are written independently of any sponsor and are reviewed by members of our Scientific Advisory Board prior to publication to assure scientific integrity.

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posted 9/11/23

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Questions To Ask Your Doctor

  • What is my cancer?
  • Is my cancer castration resistant?
  • What options do I have for treating my cancer?
  • Should I have tumor testing or genetic testing?
  • What side effects may occur with my cancer treatment?

Open clinical trials
Open clinical trials

The following studies are looking at PARP inhibitors and similar agents for treating people with advanced  cancer.  

Other clinical trials for people with  cancer can be found here.

Updated: 08/29/2024

Peer support
Peer support

The following organizations offer peer support services for people with or at high risk for cancer:

Updated: 03/08/2023

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