Targeted Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Targeted therapy aims to more precisely attack cancer cells. These drugs target changes in the genes or proteins of cancer cells that help them grow, divide, and spread. 

These are the targeted therapy drugs that are used most often to treat prostate cancer. 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. Each targeted therapy drug has its own set of side effects and ways of working. It's important to discuss all potential side effects of a drug with your healthcare team. Be sure to tell your healthcare team about any side effects you do have. 

Expand

All Available Treatments

IV (through a vein) =      Pill =

Treatment Type

PARP inhibitors

Drug Names
(Olaparib) Lynparza® (Pill)
(Talazoparib) Talzenna® (Pill)
(Rucaparib) Rubraca® (Pill)
Potential Severe Side Effects
Lung problems Secondary cancer Heart problems
Potential Side Effects
Fatigue/weakness Nausea/vomiting Weight/appetite changes Gastrointestinal problems Low blood counts Joint pain/stiffness Muscle pain Skin/nail changes Breathing problems
Important Things to Know
  • These drugs block the PARP proteins, make it very hard for tumor cells to repair their 
    damaged DNA. 
  • Olaparib targets BRCA mutations in prostate cancer cells. It is only approved for men with 
    BRCA-mutated, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. 
  • This therapy is often used in combination with other treatments. 
  • Low blood counts may put you at risk for anemia, infection, or bleeding. 
  • Rarely, some people treated with these drugs may be more likely to develop blood cancers 
    later on.