What should I do if my platelet count drops after taking Niraparib?

Niraparib is a cancer drug used in women with advanced ovarian cancer, including cancer of the ovaries, fallopian tubes (the part that connects the ovaries to the uterus), or the peritoneum (the lining around the abdomen). It may be used alone as maintenance (continuing) treatment: in women with newly diagnosed advanced cancer who have had their cancer shrink or disappear with a platinum-based drug, or in women whose cancer has come back (comes back) after responding to previous treatments, and in women whose cancer has shrunk or gone away with a platinum-based drug.

In the study population, Grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia/decreased platelet count, anemia, and neutropenia/decreased neutrophil count were reported in more than 10% of patients, and hematologic adverse events tended to occur during the first 3 months of niraparib treatment. Platelets help blood clot, so when platelet counts are low, the risk of bleeding is higher. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any additional bruising or bleeding, including nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bloody stools. If your platelet count becomes too low, you may receive a platelet transfusion. Do not use razors (electric razors are sufficient); avoid contact sports and activities that may cause injury or bleeding; do not take aspirin (salicylic acid), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these will increase the risk of bleeding

The original drug of niraparib has been launched in China and is included in medical insurance, but it is only reimbursed for eligible patients. The price of a common specification of 100mg*30 pills per box may be more than 5,000 yuan. The original niraparib drug sold overseas is more expensive than domestically. There are also generic niraparib drugs produced in other countries. Their pharmaceutical ingredients are basically the same as those of the original niraparib drug sold domestically and abroad. The price of a box of 100mg*30 tablets produced by a Bangladeshi pharmaceutical factory may be more than 1,000 yuan (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates).