Pharmacodynamic assessment of vedolizumab for the treatment of ulcerative colitis

Vedolizumab is an anti-integrin approved for the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. By binding the α4β7-integrin heterodimer, vedolizumab blocks leukocyte translocation into gastrointestinal tissue.

This review discusses the chemistry, pharmacologic properties, clinical efficacy, and safety of vedolizumab in ulcerative colitis. Other medications available for the treatment of ulcerative colitis are also discussed.

Vedolizumab is a promising new agent for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Its mechanism of action differs from TNF-α inhibitors and immune suppressants, allowing it to be used in cases of TNF-α inhibitor failure or non-response, or as a first-line biologic drug. Available safety data suggests that vedolizumab is not associated with an increased risk of infection or malignancy; however, additional post-marketing data are required to confirm these initial reports. Vedolizumab is likely to be used in growing numbers of patients over the coming years.