Managing Anemia Associated With Olaparib for Relapsed Ovarian Cancer

What are the recommendations for managing anemia in patients receiving Lynparza? — Name withheld on request

Anemia can be a common adverse event occurring in patients receiving olaparib. (Lynparza), with an incidence rate of 22%. The severity of the anemia can lead to dose interruptions or reductions.

Some studies have identified folate deficiencies in patients receiving olaparib for relapsed ovarian cancer. Most patients (90%) have experienced decreased hemoglobin, with 15% of patients experiencing grade 3-4 anemia.

Recommendations are to transfuse blood products as needed; those patients with proven folate deficiencies should be started on folic acid, dose reduce per the guidelines, and monitor closely. — Jiajoyce R. Conway, DNP, CRNP, AOCNP

Reference

Shammo JM, Usha L, Richardson K, et al. First report of severe folate deficiency in women treated with olaparib for relapsed ovarian cancer. Blood. 2017;130(suppl 1):4748.