Current approaches for optimizing the benefit of biologic therapy in ulcerative colitis

M. Anthony Sofia, David T. Rubin

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

13 Scopus citations

Abstract

As biologic-based medication options for ulcerative colitis expand, our understanding of their optimal use in clinical practice is advancing as well. The appropriate use of combination therapy with immunomodulators can reduce the immunogenicity of biologic agents and raise serum drug levels of the biologic. A treat-to-target strategy with objective assessments of disease activity clearly defines the goals of biologic drug treatment. Mucosal healing is an evolving treatment goal and is associated with long-term remission and reduced incidence of colectomy. Furthermore, regular reassessments and therapeutic drug monitoring can allow clinicians to make evidence-based changes in therapy. Biologic drug de-escalation or re-initiation are less well developed topics, but are emerging areas of study. We review the evidence underlying these advances and a modern approach to the use of biologic therapy in ulcerative colitis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)548-559
Number of pages12
JournalTherapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology
Volume9
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2016
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • biologic therapy
  • infliximab
  • mucosal healing
  • ulcerative colitis
  • vedolizumab

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Gastroenterology

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