Vedolizumab: An Important Medication for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Summary or Key Points

Vedolizumab is an essential medication used in the treatment of certain chronic gastrointestinal disorders, notably Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This medication works by reducing inflammation in the gut, promoting healing, and providing symptom relief. As with any medication, it is crucial to understand its dosage, potential side effects, and administration instructions. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose or regimen.

Names of Medication

The US brand name for Vedolizumab is Entyvio (Vedolizumab).

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the official, scientific name of the medication, not tied to any specific brand or manufacturer. It is typically placed in parenthesis following the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Vedolizumab falls under the pharmacologic category of Integrin Receptor Antagonists. Other medications in this category include Natalizumab (Tysabri) and Efalizumab (Raptiva).

Dosing

For Crohn’s Disease: The recommended dose of Vedolizumab is 300 mg administered by intravenous infusion at zero, two, and six weeks, then every eight weeks thereafter. The treatment duration is dependent on the patient’s response to the medication and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

For Ulcerative Colitis: The recommended dose is the same as for Crohn’s disease: 300 mg administered by intravenous infusion at zero, two, and six weeks, then every eight weeks thereafter. As always, the length of treatment should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Remember, our telemedicine service is available to discuss any changes in your medication plan.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Vedolizumab is available in a single-dose vial containing 300 mg of the medication for intravenous infusion.

Administration Instructions

Vedolizumab is administered through an intravenous infusion. The infusion should be performed by a healthcare provider and typically takes about 30 minutes. It is not recommended to self-administer Vedolizumab. If you have questions or concerns about this process, our telemedicine service is ready to help.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Vedolizumab can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences them, but it’s important to be aware of what to expect. Possible side effects include:

• Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Common cold, headache, joint pain, nausea, fever, fatigue, cough, bronchitis, back pain, rash, itching, sinusitis, throat pain, and flu-like symptoms.
• Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Anemia, allergic reactions, depression, insomnia, vertigo, high blood pressure, flushing, bloating, and various infections.
• Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): Serious allergic reactions, liver failure, lupus, and serious infections.

If you notice any unusual or severe reactions, consult with one of our healthcare providers through our telemedicine service immediately.

Contraindications

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. Vedolizumab has the following contraindications:

• Patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Vedolizumab or any of its ingredients should avoid this medication due to potential allergic reactions.
• Patients with active, severe infections are advised not to start Vedolizumab until the infections are controlled. The drug may inhibit the body’s ability to fight off infections.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Specific drugs may interact with Vedolizumab, altering its effects. Such drugs include:

• Natalizumab (Tysabri)
• Infliximab (Remicade)

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medications.

Vedolizumab in Pregnancy

Currently, there is insufficient data to determine whether Vedolizumab is safe to take during pregnancy. It should be used only if clearly needed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Vedolizumab while Breastfeeding

There is limited information on the safety of Vedolizumab use while breastfeeding. Consult with your healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and benefits.

Estimated Cost of Medication

As of this writing, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Vedolizumab without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $6,500.

Possible Alternatives

For Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, possible alternative treatments include other medications such as Infliximab (Remicade) or Adalimumab (Humira), dietary changes, and in severe cases, surgery. Keep in mind that lifestyle changes and alternative treatments should always be discussed with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. If you’re considering an alternative, our telemedicine service can provide the necessary guidance.

Recent Updates on Vedolizumab Research

Recent research has shown promising results with Vedolizumab for treating Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, improving the quality of life for many patients. Ongoing clinical trials are exploring its effectiveness for other gastrointestinal disorders, its long-term safety, and comparisons with other treatments. To learn more about this research, consult your healthcare provider or take advantage of our telemedicine services for a direct consultation.

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.