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DNBS/TNBS Colitis Models: Providing Insights Into Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Effects of Dietary Fat
Published on: February 27, 2014
TNF-alpha blockers in inflammatory bowel diseases: practical consensus recommendations and a user's guide.
Isabelle Pache1, Gerhard Rogler, Christian Felley
1Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Swiss Medical Weekly
|May 20, 2009
Summary
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers are crucial for treating inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). This review details their use, efficacy, and safety, including considerations for pregnancy and special patient populations.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The exact cause of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) remains unknown, despite increasing global incidence.
- Genetic factors and environmental influences play significant roles in IBD development.
- Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) is a key cytokine in IBD pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical use of TNF-alpha blockers in managing inflammatory bowel diseases.
- To provide guidance on investigations, safety, efficacy monitoring, and treatment adjustments for TNF-alpha inhibitors.
- To discuss special considerations such as pregnancy, lactation, and co-immunosuppression.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on TNF-alpha blockers for IBD.
- Analysis of clinical data regarding efficacy and safety profiles of available agents.
- Discussion of treatment strategies including dose adaptation and switching between agents.
Main Results:
- Three TNF-alpha blockers (infliximab, adalimumab, certolizumab pegol) are available in Switzerland for IBD treatment.
- These agents are effective for luminal Crohn's disease.
- Further research is needed on the efficacy of TNF-alpha blockers other than infliximab for fistulizing Crohn's disease.
Conclusions:
- TNF-alpha blockers are a cornerstone therapy for IBD, offering significant benefits.
- Careful patient selection, monitoring, and individualized treatment plans are essential for optimal outcomes.
- Ongoing research is vital to refine the use of these agents, particularly in complex cases like fistulizing Crohn's disease.
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