Vedolizumab
Uses
Vedolizumab is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
How it Works
How Vedolizumab works: White blood cells (WBCs) are produced by the immune system to combat infection. In Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease, the overproduction of WBCs results in inflammation. Vedolizumab functions by preventing WBCs from infiltrating the lining of the gut.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Vedolizumab include nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), headache, nausea, joint pain, fever, upper respiratory tract infection, fatigue, cough, bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), influenza, back pain, rash, itching, sinus inflammation, oropharyngeal pain, and pain in the extremities.
Expert Advice
- Notify your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience:
- A rash
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the eyes, mouth, throat, tongue, or lips
- Dizziness
- A fast heartbeat
- Inform your doctor if you have:
- Liver problems
- Tuberculosis or have been in close contact with someone who has tuberculosis
- A current infection or infections that are recurrent
- Ongoing infections that do not resolve
- Let your doctor know if you are planning to have any vaccinations or if you have received one recently.
