Ustekinumab: a novel therapeutic option in Crohn's disease
E G Simon1,2, S Samuel2, S Ghosh3
1a Department of Gastroenterology , Christian Medical College , Vellore , India.
Introduction:
Although anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) agents have caused a paradigm shift in the management of moderate-to-severe Crohn's, they are sometimes associated with diminished or absent response in a considerable proportion of patients. Hence agents targeting pathways other than TNF are needed. Ustekinumab is a monoclonal antibody directed against the p40 subunit of IL-12 and 23.
Areas Covered:
This manuscript summarises the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of Ustekinumab in Crohn's disease through data available from randomised controlled trials and compassionate use programs across the world.
Expert Opinion:
Current literature strongly supports the fact that ustekinumab is clinically efficacious and reasonably safe for induction and maintenance of remission in moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease.
Insights
Ustekinumab offers a safe and effective treatment option for moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease, providing an alternative for patients unresponsive to anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapies.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) agents are standard for moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease.
- A significant portion of patients exhibit primary or secondary non-response to anti-TNF therapies.
- Alternative therapeutic targets are crucial for managing Crohn's disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and safety of ustekinumab in Crohn's disease.
- To consolidate evidence from randomized controlled trials and compassionate use programs.
- To assess ustekinumab's role in induction and maintenance of remission.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
- Analysis of data from global compassionate use programs.
- Evaluation of clinical efficacy and safety profiles.
Main Results:
- Ustekinumab demonstrates clinical efficacy in moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease.
- The drug is associated with a reasonable safety profile.
- Evidence supports its use for both induction and maintenance of remission.
Conclusions:
- Ustekinumab is a valuable therapeutic option for Crohn's disease.
- It provides an effective alternative for patients with inadequate response to anti-TNF agents.
- Current data support its established role in Crohn's disease management.
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