What it does
Vedolizumab is a medication that helps manage certain inflammatory bowel diseases.
Commonly used for: ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:18:59 · updated 2026-08-03 04:19:21
About this medicine
Vedolizumab is a medication that helps manage certain inflammatory bowel diseases.
What it treats
- ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
How it works
It works by blocking specific proteins that cause inflammation in the gut.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults with moderate to severe inflammatory bowel diseases who have not responded well to other treatments.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Vedolizumab
BNF-referencedVedolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the α4β7 integrin, which is expressed on gut-homing T lymphocytes. By binding to this integrin, vedolizumab inhibits the migration of these lymphocytes to the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing inflammation associated with inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It is primarily used as an immunosuppressive therapy in patients who have not responded adequately to conventional therapies.
Indications
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing information.
Adults: Initially, 300 mg by intravenous infusion at weeks 0, 2, and 6, followed by maintenance therapy of 108 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks.
Mechanism of action
Vedolizumab binds to the α4β7 integrin on T lymphocytes, blocking their interaction with mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1) expressed on the endothelium of the gut. This prevents the migration of these immune cells to the intestinal tissue, thereby mitigating inflammation and the pathological processes in conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Pharmacodynamics
Vedolizumab's pharmacodynamics involve modulation of immune responses in the gut. By inhibiting lymphocyte trafficking, it decreases local inflammation and promotes mucosal healing in the intestinal lining, which is crucial for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. Its effect is localized to the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for a favorable safety profile compared to systemic immunosuppressants.
Pharmacokinetics
Vedolizumab exhibits a biphasic elimination profile after intravenous administration with a distribution phase followed by a slower elimination phase. The half-life of vedolizumab is approximately 18 days. It is primarily cleared by the reticuloendothelial system and does not undergo significant hepatic metabolism. The pharmacokinetics may vary based on individual patient factors and concurrent medications.
Contra-indications
- Active tuberculosis
- Severe infusion-related reactions
Adverse effects
- Arthralgia
- Constipation
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Infusion-related reactions
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of infection before, during, and after treatment
- Consider pretreatment with antihistamines or hydrocortisone for patients with a history of infusion reactions
- Patients should be brought up to date with immunisation schedule prior to treatment
Pregnancy
Manufacturer advises use only if potential benefit outweighs risk.
Breast-feeding
Use with caution; present in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator (2 to 8 degrees Celsius). Do not freeze.
Formulations
- Intravenous infusion: 300 mg in 10 mL solution for infusion
- Subcutaneous injection: 108 mg in 1 mL solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.