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Journal of Gastrointestinal & Digestive System | ISSN: 2161-069X | Volume 8
Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology
14
th
International Conference on
August 29-30, 2018 | Toronto, Canada
Vedolizumab for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: for now only rescue therapy in the Republic of Srpska
R Tamburic
1
and
J Petkovic-Dabic
2
1
University Clinical Centre of the Republic of Srpska, Republic of Srpska
2
Helth Insurance Fund of the Republic of Srpska, Republic of Srpska
Introduction:
Vedolizumab (VDZ) is a humanized monoclonal antibody α4β7 integrin-receptor antagonist indicated for the
treatment of patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. We want to show our modest experience
with the use of vedolizumab as a rescue therapy when other medical therapies have failed.
Methods:
An observational study was carried out on patients with inflammatory bowel disease treated with VDZ for at one year. An
evaluation was performed on the activity indices, fecal calprotectin, and C-reactive protein levels.
Results:
Our study included 7 patients (5 CD, 2 UC, mean age 40 years). Previous treatment failures with ≥ 2 anti-TNFs. At one year,
in all patient maintained the clinical response and remission. The C-reactive protein and fecal calprotectin decreased significantly in
both CD and UC patients.
Discussion:
Our experience indicates that a long-term effect can be achieved, even beyond 1 year of treatment. Vedolizumab is
generally well tolerated. Vedolizumab may be used as a rescue therapy in patients with medically refractory ulcerative colitis or
Crohn's disease.
renata.83@live.comJ Gastrointest Dig Syst 2018, Volume 8
DOI: 10.4172/2161-069X-C6-080