PARP inhibitor (cancer medicine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Talazoparib (brand name Talzenna) is a cancer medicine that works by blocking a protein called PARP, which cancer cells need to repair their damaged DNA. Without this repair, the cancer cells die.
Inhibits poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes, preventing DNA repair in BRCA-mutant cancer cells and leading to accumulation of DNA damage and cell death. This synthetic lethality approach is particularly effective in tumours with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations that rely on PARP-mediated homologous recombination repair pathways.
Breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer), specifically in people who have a harmful BRCA gene change
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose or vomit after taking it, do not take an extra dose. Just take your next dose at the usual scheduled time the following day.
This is a highly specialized cancer drug, so only take it if prescribed and supervised by an oncologist (cancer specialist). Do not buy from unverified sources or roadside sellers, as counterfeit cancer medicines are extremely dangerous. Regular blood tests are essential while on this medicine, so keep all your hospital appointments.
Certain antibiotics and antifungals (like ketoconazole or itraconazole) can increase talazoparib levels dangerously in your body, so always tell your doctor about any other medicine you are taking. Acid-reducing stomach drugs like omeprazole may also interact. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen side effects like tiredness and nausea.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Talazoparib with your other drugs?
This drug is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby, and both men and women must use effective contraception during treatment and for some months after stopping.
Store at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep the capsules in their original container, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Store in a cool, dry place and always keep out of the reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.