If you have certain types of cancer, your doctor might suggest Lynparza (olaparib) as a treatment option. It’s a prescription drug that’s used in adults to treat types of:

You might be prescribed Lynparza if your cancer is BCRA-positive. This means there’s a mutation (an abnormal change) in your BRCA (breast cancer) gene. This mutation is linked to cancer growth.

Lynparza comes as a tablet that you swallow. Olaparib is the active ingredient in Lynparza. Olaparib belongs to a group of drugs called PARP inhibitors. To learn more about Lynparza, see this in-depth article.

The chart below highlights the basics of Lynparza’s dosage. Be sure to read on for more detail. And keep in mind that this article covers Lynparza’s typical dosages, which are provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But when taking Lynparza, always take the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

Lynparza formLynparza strengthsTypical dosage
tablet• 100 milligrams (mg)

• 150 mg		300 mg twice daily

The recommended dosage for Lynparza is described below.

What is Lynparza’s form?

Lynparza comes as a tablet that you swallow.

What strengths does Lynparza come in?

Lynparza comes in two strengths: 100 milligrams (mg) and 150 mg.

What are the typical dosages of Lynparza?

The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

The recommended dosage of Lynparza is the same for each of its approved uses: 300 mg, taken twice per day. This is a total daily dose of 600 mg.

For certain types of ovarian cancer, you may take Lynparza with another drug called Avastin (bevacizumab).

For prostate cancer, your doctor might prescribe Lynparza along with other medications to keep your testosterone levels low. Or they might prescribe Lynparza after you’ve had your testicles surgically removed.

Is Lynparza used long term?

Yes, Lynparza is typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Lynparza is safe and effective for you, it’s likely that you’ll take it long term.

If you develop severe side effects or your cancer gets worse, your doctor may have you pause or stop your Lynparza treatment. But be sure to take Lynparza exactly as your doctor prescribes.

If you’re taking Lynparza for ovarian cancer and you have no signs of cancer after 2 years of treatment, your doctor may have you stop taking Lynparza.

Dosage adjustments

Your doctor might recommend a dose reduction or adjustment from the recommended starting dose of Lynparza. This depends on:

  • Your kidney function. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may lower your Lynparza dose or start you on a lower dose than usual.
  • Whether you’re taking certain other medications. Some medications can affect how Lynparza works in your body. Your doctor may adjust your dose of Lynparza if you need to continue taking the other medications.

The dosage of Lynparza you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:

  • how your body responds to the medication (such as any side effects you have)
  • other medications you may be taking
  • other conditions you may have (see “Dosage adjustments” under “What is Lynparza’s dosage?” just above)

You should swallow Lynparza tablets whole. Do not chew, break, crush, or dissolve the tablets.

Try to take Lynparza at about the same time each day. You can take your dose with or without food. But you should not have grapefruit or Seville oranges while you’re taking Lynparza. These foods (including the juice of either fruit) can increase your risk of side effects.

If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication. And for information on Lynparza expiration, storage, and disposal, see this article.

If you miss a dose of Lynparza, skip it and take your next dose at your usual time. You should not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Lynparza on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

Do not take more Lynparza than your doctor prescribes. Taking more than this can lead to serious side effects.

What to do in case you take too much Lynparza

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Lynparza. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use their online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

The sections above describe the typical dosages provided by the drug manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Lynparza for you, they will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Lynparza without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Lynparza exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

  • Will my dose of Lynparza be changed if I have bothersome side effects?
  • Does my age affect my Lynparza dosage?
  • Does my dose of Lynparza need to change if I’m taking other drugs along with it?

If you take Lynparza to treat breast cancer, consider subscribing to Healthline’s online newsletter. This resource offers first-person stories and more information about your condition.

Q:

Will my dosage of Lynparza change if my cancer doesn’t improve?

Anonymous

A:

This isn’t likely. If your doctor determines that your cancer hasn’t improved or has worsened during treatment, they may have you stop Lynparza and try a different treatment.

If you have questions about Lynparza’s dosage or what to expect with your cancer treatment, talk with your doctor.

Victor Nguyen, PharmD, MBAAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.