Vedolizumab

Vedolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to target and block ?4?7 integrin, thereby inhibiting leukocyte trafficking to the gut. It is administered intravenously and is indicated for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Indications

Vedolizumab is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in patients who have not responded adequately to conventional therapy or have experienced intolerable side effects with other treatments.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of vedolizumab is based on body weight and administered as an intravenous infusion over a specified period. The initial dose is typically followed by additional doses at specific intervals, as determined by the prescribing physician.

Contra-Indications

Vedolizumab is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of its excipients.

Special Precautions

Special precautions should be taken when administering vedolizumab to patients with a history of infections, including tuberculosis, or those at risk of developing infections. Additionally, monitoring for signs of infusion-related reactions and hypersensitivity is advised.

Side Effects

Common side effects of vedolizumab include headache, nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, fatigue, nausea, and arthralgia. Serious adverse reactions may include infections, infusion-related reactions, and hypersensitivity reactions.

Drug Interactions

Caution should be exercised when administering vedolizumab concurrently with immunosuppressive agents or biologic therapies.