How Does Entyvio Work for Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease?

Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). It belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-integrins, which work by blocking the activity of certain proteins on immune cells to prevent them from attacking the lining of the colon and rectum.

Here's a detailed explanation of how Entyvio works:

Mechanism of Action:

- Entyvio targets a specific protein called integrin α4β7, which is expressed on the surface of certain immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes.

- Integrin α4β7 plays a crucial role in the migration of T cells to the gut, where they can cause inflammation and damage in conditions like UC and CD.

- By binding to integrin α4β7, Entyvio prevents these immune cells from attaching to the lining of the colon and rectum, thereby inhibiting inflammation and tissue damage.

Effects on the Immune System:

- Entyvio modulates the immune response by selectively blocking the migration of pathogenic T cells to the gut, while preserving the function of other immune cells necessary for fighting infections.

- It dampens the inflammatory cascade by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and interleukin-23 (IL-23), which are involved in the development of UC and CD.

Clinical Efficacy:

- In clinical trials, Entyvio has shown promising results in inducing remission and improving symptoms in patients with moderate to severe UC and CD.

- It has been effective in both induction and maintenance therapy, leading to reduced disease activity, improved endoscopic appearance, and decreased symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Administration:

- Entyvio is administered intravenously (IV) as an infusion over 30 minutes. The initial dose is typically given at week 0, followed by infusions at week 2 and week 6, and then every 8 weeks thereafter.

- The exact dosing regimen may vary depending on the individual's response and as determined by the healthcare provider.

Side Effects:

- Like any medication, Entyvio may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects include headache, nausea, upper respiratory tract infections, infusion reactions, and joint pain.

- Serious side effects, though rare, can include infections, opportunistic infections, and allergic reactions. It's important to discuss potential side effects and precautions with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.

Overall, Entyvio is a targeted therapy that works by blocking the migration of specific immune cells to the gut, thereby reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in individuals with moderate to severe UC and CD.