Targeted Therapy for Ovarian Cancer

Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific changes in cancer cells that help them grow, divide, and spread. Targeted therapy drugs are designed to be more precise. They fight cancer cells while causing less harm to other cells in the body.  

These are the targeted therapy drugs for ovarian cancer that have been approved. New treatments become available all the time, so this may not be a complete list. 

Please note: The side effects listed here do not represent a comprehensive list. It's important to discuss all potential side effects of a drug with your health care team. Be sure to tell your health care team about any side effects you do have.

All Available Treatments

Treatment Type

Angiogenesis Inhibitor

Drug Names
Avastin® (Bevacizumab) and its biosimilars:
Mvasi® (bevacizumab-awwb)
Zirabev™ (bevacizumab-bvzr)
Potential Side Effects
Bleeding Constipation Diarrhea Hair thinning/loss Headache Urinary, kidney, or bladder changes Weight/appetite changes Low blood counts Mouth sores Nausea/vomiting Pain Infections Blood pressure changes Fatigue/weakness
Important Things to Know
  • This targeted therapy blocks the growth of the blood vessels tumors need to thrive.
  • There is the risk of developing an upper respiratory infection or difficulty breathing.
  • Kidney problems are a possible side effect.
  • A low white blood cell count is a potential side effect that may put you at risk for anemia, infection, or bleeding.
  • Mouth sores are a potential side effect that can be painful and affect your oral intake. Speak to your provider about proactive management and an oral care regimen.             

Treatment Type

PARP (poly[ADP]-ribose polymerase) Inhibitors

Drug Names
Lynparza® (Olaparib)
Rubraca® (Rucaparib)
Zejula® (Niraparib)
Potential Side Effects
Diarrhea Fatigue/weakness Hair thinning/loss Weight/appetite changes Low blood counts Nausea/vomiting
Important Things to Know
  • This targeted therapy may help keep cancer cells from repairing their damaged DNA, causing them to die.
  • This therapy is for HER2-/BRCA+ cancer.
  • These drugs may interact with other drugs. Tell your doctor about everything else you are taking.
  • Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking.  
  • Low blood counts are a potential side effect that may put you at risk for anemia, infection, or bleeding.