Niraparib 'chemo brain'

[Kaitlinsmum]

Hello! Is anyone else taking Niraparib experiencing 'chemo brain' ? I don't know if it is a side effect or not. I have mentioned this to my medical team but not received any guidance or support. Some days I feel like Im developing dementia. Forgetting things, not being able to find words ect. My plan is to take Niraparib for at least another 12 months.

[27-359]

Yes, I'm on Rucaparib and experience the same thing, though am more inclined to blame the chemo, as I think I noticed this general foggyying of the brain before I started the PARP.

Jenny

[Rankij11]

Definitely post chemo fog and Olaparib doesn’t seem to help . Spend life searching jfor things !!! 🤣BW

Jennifer

[Cumbrianlass5]

YES! I certainly am. Had a bit of chemo brain during chemo but it improved a lot. However, now on Niraparib and it is much, much worse. Have to write everything down. It is very frustrating for me and for my family. However, the nausea passed after a couple of weeks and the insomnia seems to be better. Still getting back and hip pains but hope they and the chemo brain lessen as my body gets more used to the drug. However, still grateful to be on Niraparib. It gives me hope -- which the previous watch-and-wait plan did not. Best wishes x

[Kaitlinsmum in reply to Cumbrianlass5]

Thanks. Im grateful to have the chance to take Niraparib, too. My fam8ly will just have to adjust to my chemo brain!

[mumclark]

Oh my goodness. I am soooo... glad to hear this even though it is not good news. I have been on Niraparib from Feb 2018 and the other week my manager asked me if I had early onset dementia (so caring). They felt I was not replying as quickly. Ended up on a occ health referral! Upshot being not Dementia or other related illness. Signs of cognitive issues around cancer drugs!!! Management not happy as they now have an action plan to help me. Hearing from you and everyone else proves at least that I am not alone x

[Kaitlinsmum in reply to mumclark]

You are not alone! My mum is in early stages of dementia and some days my daughters say we are as bad as each other! I have notebooks and calendars and lists everywhere.

[delia2]

I feel the same on Olaparib. I’ve always been very quick-witted and now I feel the wheels grinding slowly. Simple algebra eludes me. I’m glad others feel the same.

[Kaitlinsmum in reply to delia2]

I worry about going back to work cos I think so slowly now. I wanted to nominate myself as parent govenor at my daughters school but know I would feel stupid in meetings

[delia2]

Maybe taking on responsibility like that would help make your brain more active? I don’t know. I hope it improves for you. Xx