Vedolizumab: A Comprehensive Medication Guide

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Entyvio (Vedolizumab)

Pharmacologic category

Vedolizumab falls under the category of integrin receptor antagonists. Other drugs in this category include Natalizumab (Tysabri) and Efalizumab (Raptiva).

Dosing

Vedolizumab is used in the treatment of certain diseases in adults. Here is the standard dosing information. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and never adjust your dose without consulting them first.

Crohn’s Disease

300 mg of Vedolizumab is given by intravenous infusion over approximately 30 minutes at zero, two, and six weeks, then every eight weeks thereafter.

Ulcerative Colitis

Similarly, for ulcerative colitis, the regimen is 300 mg of Vedolizumab given by intravenous infusion over about 30 minutes at zero, two, and six weeks, then every eight weeks thereafter.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Vedolizumab is available in single-dose vials containing 300 mg of the drug.

Administration Instructions

Vedolizumab is administered by a healthcare provider through a needle placed in a vein (intravenous infusion). The infusion generally takes about 30 minutes.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Vedolizumab may cause side effects. This section details some common and serious side effects. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Vedolizumab include:
Headache (20%): This is typically mild and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Joint pain (16%): This side effect can be managed with rest and hot or cold therapy.
Nausea (15%): This can be mitigated by taking the medication with food.

Serious Side Effects

– Serious allergic reactions (rare): Seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. – Infections (4%): Vedolizumab may lower your ability to fight infections. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms like fever, sweats or chills, muscle aches, cough, shortness of breath, bloody diarrhea, sores on your body, or burning when you urinate.

Contraindications to taking Vedolizumab

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. Here are a few situations that are contraindicated for Vedolizumab use:

Active severe infections

Vedolizumab may increase the risk of developing infections, especially in patients with a history of chronic or recurrent infections. If you have an active severe infection, your doctor may postpone treatment with Vedolizumab.

Allergic reactions

If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Vedolizumab or any of its components in the past, you should not use this medication. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Vedolizumab may interact with other medications. Be sure to provide your healthcare provider with a list of all the medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements. Notable drug interactions include:
Live vaccines: Do not receive a “live” vaccine while using Vedolizumab. The vaccine may not work as well and may not fully protect you from disease.
Natalizumab (Tysabri): Both drugs affect the immune system and using them together may increase your risk of infections.
Tofacitinib (Xeljanz): Co-administration of these two drugs may increase the risk of immune system side effects and infections.

Vedolizumab in Pregnancy

There’s limited information on the use of Vedolizumab during pregnancy. It should only be used if clearly needed and the benefits outweigh the risks. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Vedolizumab while Breastfeeding

It’s not known whether Vedolizumab passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while receiving Vedolizumab treatment.

Estimated Cost of Medication

As of May 2023, the estimated price of a single 300 mg dose of Vedolizumab without insurance, but with a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $6,200. Remember, these prices can vary depending on the pharmacy and location and are subject to change based on negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.