PARP inhibitors and maintenance treatment of recurrent platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer

The addition of PARP inhibitors, such as olaparib and niraparib, to the maintenance treatment of patients with recurrent, platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer has led to significant progression-free survival (PFS), according to Amanda L. Jackson, MD. THE PFS benefit with these agents were demonstrated in the phase 2 SOLO-2, NOVA, and ARIEL3 trials, respectively.

“The ARIEL3, NOVA, and SOLO-2 trials have definitely changed how we practice and treat patients with ovarian cancer. We know that there is a role for PARP maintenance [in these patients], because it seems to increase the time until they recur,” said Jackson. “In the frontline setting, hopefully, [PARP maintenance will] push even more patients into permanent remission. These studies help us see that all our patients benefit from a PARP inhibitor. It's just figuring out what's the best time to give it to them.”