Combining Advanced Targeted Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Current Practice and Future Directions

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) management remains challenging, with many patients not reaching therapeutic targets.
• Uncontrolled IBD significantly impacts patient quality of life and healthcare costs.
• Combined Advanced Targeted Therapy (CATT), using biologics/small molecules, is emerging due to IBD's complex pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on Combined Advanced Targeted Therapy (CATT) in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
• To explore future developments and potential applications of CATT in IBD treatment.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review approach was employed.
• Literature search conducted using relevant Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms in major databases.

Main Results:

• Available evidence suggests CATT demonstrates encouraging efficacy and effectiveness in IBD.
• CATT shows an acceptable safety profile and may benefit patients with refractory IBD or co-existing inflammatory diseases.
• Current data are limited by low evidence levels and short follow-up periods.

Conclusions:

• No specific combination therapy has demonstrated superiority over others.
• Various CATT regimens may be utilized in the near future.
• Further research is essential to guide clinical recommendations and integrate CATT into standard practice.