Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

PARP inhibitors

PARP inhibitors are used in cancer treatment. PARP stands for poly (ADP ribose) polymerase. It's a protein that is part of the body's natural process to repair DNA in cells. So medicines that inhibit, or prevent, this protein from repairing DNA can help kill cancer cells.

When you get chemotherapy or radiation treatments, the goal is to destroy cancer cells. You might also get PARP inhibitors along with these treatments. They can stop PARP from repairing the DNA in the cells. This makes it more likely that the cancer cells will die.

Current as of: October 25, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.