Crohn’s disease, along with another condition called ulcerative colitis, are both conditions in the category of inflammatory bowel disease. Approximately 1.6 million Americans have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel diseases, with each year another 70,000 cases in the U.S. getting the news of these digestive diseases.
Originally, the primary treatments for Crohn’s disease relied on corticosteroids, aminosalicylates, thiopurines, and methotrexate. Then over the past two decades, new therapy options started to appear: three tumor necrosis factor antagonists, two anti-integrins, and an anti-interleukin 12/23 antibody. Yet as many as 25% of patients did not respond to these treatment options. Fortunately, even more treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases have joined the treatment ranks, including Xeljanz, which is the first oral medication option approved by the FDA for ulcerative colitis.
These treatment options are especially important in light of new research demonstrating that getting these diseases under control earlier, pays off in terms of long term health. For example, a new study found that patients with Crohn’s disease who, with the use of medication, go into mucosal remission within one year of starting treatment are healthier over the next three years. This was documented by tracking the development of fistulas, abscesses, and/or strictures, as well as whether hospitalizations and surgeries were required.
With this evidence in mind, it supports a more aggressive treatment plan for those newly diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, with the goal of better long-term health by achieving remission as early as possible.
BioPlus provides expert pharmaceutical care when it comes to the specialty medications needed for inflammatory bowel disease management, whether it’s Xeljanz (toficitinib), Humira (adalimumab), Remicade (infliximab), Stelara (ustekinumab) or other medications. Rely on the BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy team to help patients and their health care providers access these medications and support optimal patient outcomes.
Sources
Ungaro R. Early control of Crohn’s modifies disease course, study indicates. Gastroenter Endo News November 5, 2019.
Yzet C, et al. Abstract OP35. Presented at: Congress of the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation; Mar. 7-9, 2019; Copenhagen.
Colombel J, et al. Abstract OP225. Presented at: UEG Week; Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, 2017; Barcelona.