Vedolizumab

Vedolizumab is a prescription biologic medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe active ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. By targeting inflammation directly in the digestive tract, this medicine helps control symptoms and works to bring about long-term relief from swelling and irritation. It is prescribed for patients who have not responded well to, or cannot tolerate, other standard treatments.

This medicine is taken on a regular schedule determined by your healthcare provider, either as an intravenous infusion or a subcutaneous injection. To achieve the best results, it is crucial to use this medicine consistently as directed, even when you feel completely healthy. Making dietary changes and managing your stress levels can also help support your gut health and improve treatment outcomes.

While many patients tolerate this medicine well, some may experience mild side effects such as common cold symptoms, headaches, or joint pain. However, you must contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, high fever, or severe abdominal pain. Regular monitoring by your healthcare team will help ensure the medicine is working safely.

Do not take this if you have a severe active infection, such as active tuberculosis, unless your doctor has specifically evaluated and approved it. Before starting Vedolizumab, tell your doctor if you have a history of chronic or recurring infections, liver problems, or if you are scheduled to receive any vaccines. Your doctor will perform screening tests before your first dose to ensure it is safe for you to start.

This medicine can interact with other treatments that suppress your immune system, which can increase your risk of catching serious infections. It is important to discuss your current medications with your healthcare team, and consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or are an older adult. Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking, as these habits can further irritate your digestive tract and worsen your underlying condition.

Vedolizumab offers several benefits that help improve symptom control, support intestinal healing, and promote long-term disease management, including:

• Targeted action in the gut: Vedolizumab focuses its action specifically on the digestive tract rather than suppressing your body's entire immune system. This gut-selective approach helps manage chronic inflammation while reducing the likelihood of widespread, systemic side effects.
• Improved symptom control: By effectively lowering gut inflammation, many patients experience a significant reduction in active symptoms, leading to fewer daily bathroom visits and less abdominal discomfort. This symptom control helps you return to normal daily activities with greater confidence and comfort.
• Supports long-term intestinal healing: Consistent use of this medicine supports the physical healing of the intestinal lining over time. Achieving deep mucosal healing helps maintain long-term remission, lowering the risk of sudden flare-ups and reducing the likelihood of hospital stays or gut-related surgeries.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication.
• Vedolizumab will be administered by a nurse or doctor.
• Do not self-administer.

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

• Common cold symptoms (such as runny nose, sore throat, or sinus congestion)
• Headache
• Joint or muscle pain
• Nausea or mild stomach upset
• Fever, cough, or general tiredness

Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Signs of a severe infection (including high fever, chills, persistent cough, burning during urination, or flu-like symptoms)
• Signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, or pain on the upper right side of your stomach)
• Severe swelling, pain, or redness at the injection site