Rucaparib is a targeted therapy for tumors with specific gene mutations, mainly for patients with BRCA mutation-related ovarian and prostate cancer.
Guide to the use of Rucaparib
The drug is a PARP inhibitor, and Rucaparib inhibits tumor growth by blocking the DNA repair mechanism, and its standardized use is important for efficacy and safety. The following is explained from two aspects: basic information and medication details.
Basic Information & Indications
Rucaparib was developed by Clovis Oncology in the United States, and was approved by the FDA in 2016, but has not yet entered the Chinese medical insurance system. The main ingredient of the drug is Rucaparib, and the dosage form is tablets, including 200mg, 250mg and 300mg. Indications cover maintenance therapy for BRCA-mutated recurrent ovarian cancer, as well as BRCA-mutated metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Dosage
The recommended dose is 600 mg (two tablets of 300 mg) orally twice daily for a total dose of 1200 mg/day, which can be taken with or without food. It needs to be continued until disease progression or intolerable toxicity occurs. If you miss a dose or vomit, you do not need to make up the dose, and continue to take the medication as originally planned.
Standardized medication should be combined with the individual situation of the patient, and regular monitoring of blood routine and liver and kidney function. The drug should be sealed in a dry environment at 15-30°C away from light, pay attention to the integrity of the package after opening, and avoid moisture or freezing.
How effective is the treatment of Rucaparib?
The efficacy and safety of Rucaparib have been verified by multiple clinical studies. The following analyzes its therapeutic effect from two perspectives: mechanism of action and clinical response.
Target action and indication coverage
The PARP protein family plays a key role in DNA single-stranded damage repair. BRCA-mutant tumor cells rely on the PARP pathway for DNA repair, and Rucaparib inhibits PARP activity, resulting in the accumulation of DNA damage and death of tumor cells, i.e., the "synthetic lethality" effect. Clinical data showed that it significantly prolonged the progression-free survival of patients with BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer, and the overall survival rate of prostate cancer patients was also improved.
Adverse effects and coping strategies
Common adverse effects include nausea, anemia, and abnormal liver function. Patients with ovarian cancer are more likely to have thrombocytopenia and photosensitivity reactions, while patients with prostate cancer are concerned about rash and constipation. For grade ≥3 hematologic toxicity, it is recommended to suspend the drug and adjust the dose; Mild gastrointestinal reactions can be relieved by splitting doses or symptomatic management. Particular attention should be paid to the risk of myelosuppression, and routine blood tests should be monitored weekly during treatment.
Proper management of adverse effects can improve treatment adherence. In clinical application, it is necessary to weigh efficacy and safety, and dynamically adjust the regimen based on patient tolerance.
Is there a high level of recognition among Rucaparib patients?
The drug is a second-line treatment option, and Rucaparib has a clear value in specific patient populations. Here's a look at its acceptance from the perspective of accessibility and real-world application feedback.
Market availability and access
The price of the original drug is higher, and the U.S. version of the 300mg format is about $3,510 per box. The price advantage of generic drugs in India is obvious, only $754 for the same specification, but it needs to be purchased through formal cross-border channels. Since they are not included in China's medical insurance, patients mostly rely on overseas drugs, and they need to be wary of the difference in the quality of generic drugs.
Clinical feedback
Real-world studies have shown that the median progression-free survival of BRCA mutant patients can reach 10-12 months after treatment, and the quality of life has improved significantly. Some patients reported that fatigue was obvious, but most of them could be relieved by adjusting the time of taking the drug.
Based on the clinical data and practical application, Rucaparib has clear therapeutic value within the scope of indications. With the popularization of genetic testing and the accumulation of drug experience, its position in precision tumor treatment will be further enhanced.
