Examples
|
| Humira | adalimumab |
| Cimzia | certolizumab |
| Remicade | infliximab |
| Tysabri | natalizumab |
How It Works
These medicines stop a
protein that increases inflammation in the body. They block the inflammatory response that happens in
and
. They are given as a shot.
Infliximab and natalizumab are given as a shot in a vein (). Adalimumab and certolizumab are
given as a shot under the skin (subcutaneous).
Why It Is Used
Infliximab was first used to treat
abnormal connections () between the intestines and
organs in moderate to severe Crohn's disease. Now it is used to induce and
maintain
(a period without symptoms) in people who
have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis that has not improved with other
medicines.
Adalimumab, certolizumab, and natalizumab are used to
induce and maintain remission in people with Crohn's disease who have not
improved with other medicines and who no longer respond to or cannot tolerate
treatment with infliximab.
How Well It Works
Crohn's disease
In multiple studies, almost 70% of
people taking infliximab had fewer symptoms or had healed fistulas.
Adalimumab has shown promise in treating Crohn's
disease in multiple studies. It works like infliximab
and may be good for people who are allergic to infliximab.
Certolizumab works in some people to stop the symptoms of Crohn's
disease. In these people, certolizumab works well to help keep them free of
symptoms (in remission).,
Studies show that natalizumab works to stop the
symptoms Crohn's disease in some people and to keep some people free of
symptoms. But natalizumab may cause a serious and life-threatening disease
called PML. Because of this risk, natalizumab is only available through a
special prescription drug program.
Ulcerative colitis
In one study, between 60% and
70% of people with ulcerative colitis were better 8 weeks after getting
infliximab treatment. In another study, twice as many people got better after
receiving infliximab compared to those taking a placebo.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.