Niraparib
Pronunciation: (nye-RAH-puh-rib).
- Generic name
- niraparib
- Brand names
- Niraparib Glenmark, Zejula, Niraparib MSN, Niraparib Natco
- Drug class
- Cancer & Oncology
Prescription Only Specialist Oncology
Trade names by country: United States · United Kingdom · Australia
Australia: Zejula (4) · Full directory
What niraparib is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how niraparib works
Niraparib is a selective inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes, primarily PARP-1 and PARP-2. PARP enzymes are involved in DNA repair, particularly the repair of single-strand breaks via the base excision repair pathway. Inhibition of PARP leads to accumulation of DNA damage, genomic instability, and ultimately apoptosis, especially in tumor cells with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), such as those with BRCA1/2 mutations. (1)
What niraparib is used for
Maintenance treatment of adult patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy.
Maintenance treatment of adult patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Treatment of adult patients with advanced ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have been treated with three or more prior chemotherapy regimens and who are platinum-sensitive.
Treatment of adult patients with advanced ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have been treated with three or more prior chemotherapy regimens and who are platinum-sensitive. (2) (3) (4) (5)
First-line maintenance treatment of adult patients with advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy.
First-line maintenance treatment of adult patients with advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Before taking niraparib
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to niraparib or any excipients. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2) (3) (4) (5)How to take niraparib
- General Instructions: Take niraparib exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily at the same time each day.. Adult Dosing: The typical starting dose is 200 mg or 300 mg orally once daily, depending on body weight and platelet count. Dose adjustments may be required based on side effects or lab results.. Pediatric Dosing: Niraparib is not approved for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.. Administration: Swallow capsules or tablets whole, with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets or capsules.. When To Stop: Do not stop taking niraparib without consulting your doctor. Your doctor may stop treatment if you develop severe side effects or if your cancer progresses.. Storage: Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C/68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once.
Overdose
If you take too much niraparib, seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, or bone marrow suppression. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Fatigue
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Thrombocytopenia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Anemia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Neutropenia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Abdominal pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Vomiting
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Myelodysplastic syndrome/Acute myeloid leukemia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
May cause serious blood disorders, including anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia — serious
Symptoms: May cause serious blood disorders, including anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Risk of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Can cause hypertension (high blood pressure). May cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy. Monitor for signs of infection or unusual bleeding.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to niraparib or any excipients. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing bone marrow suppression, severe hepatic or renal impairment, or a history of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Monitor closely for hematologic toxicity, hypertension, and signs of secondary malignancies.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2) (3) (4) (5)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Niraparib has a low potential for drug-drug interactions, but caution is advised when used with medications that affect bone marrow function or blood counts. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children (2) (3) (4) (5)
Monitoring
(2) (3) (4) (5)Storage
Follow the exact product label and keep medicines away from children.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Maintenance treatment of adult patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy.
Dose summary: 300 mg orally once daily
Renal context: No clinically significant differences in niraparib pharmacokinetics were observed with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30 to 90 mL/min). The effect of severe renal impairment (below 30 mL/min) or end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis is unknown. (1)
Hepatic guidance
Mild hepatic impairment (total bilirubin below 1.5 x ULN with any AST, or bilirubin at or below ULN with AST above ULN): no dosage modification. Moderate hepatic impairment (total bilirubin 1.5 to 3 x ULN with any AST): 200 mg once daily regardless of body weight or platelet count. The effect of severe hepatic impairment (total bilirubin above 3 x ULN) is unknown.
Frequently asked questions
What is niraparib used for?
Niraparib is used as maintenance therapy for adults with certain types of ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer, especially after successful initial chemotherapy or for recurrent disease.
How does niraparib work?
Niraparib blocks the PARP enzyme, which helps repair damaged DNA in cancer cells. By inhibiting this enzyme, niraparib prevents cancer cells from repairing themselves, leading to cell death.
What are the most common side effects of niraparib?
Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, constipation, vomiting, decreased appetite, and headache. Blood count changes are also frequent.
Can I take niraparib if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Niraparib can cause harm to an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up doses.
How often will I need blood tests while taking niraparib?
You will need regular blood tests, especially during the first few months of treatment, to monitor for changes in blood counts and other side effects.
Are there any foods or medicines I should avoid while taking niraparib?
There are no specific food restrictions, but avoid medicines that may lower your blood counts or increase bleeding risk unless approved by your doctor.
What happens if I take too much Niraparib?
Taking too much Niraparib can lead to an overdose, potentially exacerbating common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and bone marrow suppression. In severe cases, it could result in life-threatening complications. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center. Do not attempt to self-treat.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Niraparib?
It is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Niraparib. Alcohol can worsen some of the common side effects of PARP inhibitors, such as nausea, fatigue, and liver issues. Additionally, alcohol may interact with the drug's metabolism, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of adverse reactions. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding alcohol intake.
Is Niraparib safe during pregnancy?
Niraparib is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can cause fetal harm. Based on its mechanism of action and animal studies, there is a potential risk to the developing fetus. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. Always consult your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant while taking Niraparib.
What is the mechanism of action of niraparib?
Niraparib is a selective inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes, primarily PARP-1 and PARP-2. PARP enzymes are involved in DNA repair, particularly the repair of single-strand breaks via the base excision repair pathway. Inhibition of PARP leads to accumulation of DNA damage, genomic instability, and ultimately apoptosis, especially in tumor cells with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), such as those with BRCA1/2 mutations. (1)
What is the generic name of Niraparib?
The generic name is niraparib. It is sold under brand names including Niraparib Glenmark, Zejula, Niraparib MSN, Niraparib Natco.
What class of drug is niraparib?
Niraparib is classed as: Cancer & Oncology.
References
- ZEJULA (niraparib) tablets — prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration · United States · dated 2026-03 · accessed 2026-07-22 · source 1
- ZEJULA — niraparib tablet, film coatedU.S. National Library of Medicine DailyMed · United States · dated 2026-03-27 · accessed 2026-07-22 · source 2
- Zejula 100 mg tablets — Summary of Product Characteristicselectronic Medicines Compendium (UK) · United Kingdom · dated 2025 · accessed 2026-07-22 · source 3
- ZEJULA niraparib 100 mg capsule — ARTG 305254Therapeutic Goods Administration · Australia · dated 2019-06-28 · accessed 2026-07-22 · source 4
- ZEJULA prescription medicine registration decisionTherapeutic Goods Administration · Australia · accessed 2026-07-22 · source 5
- ZEJULA (NIRAPARIB) TABLET, FILM COATED [GLAXOSMITHKLINE LLC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
- Niraparib — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 7
- AKEEGA — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA NDA216793)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 8
- niraparib — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 1918231)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 9
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient niraparib names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- ZEJULA200 mg, 300 mg, 100 mg · glaxosmithkline llc
United Kingdom
- Zejula (3)verified
Australia
- Zejula (4)verified