How biologics work
Biologics are in injection form or an infusion.
Adalimumab and golimumab can be self-injected
at home using a needle, syringe, or auto-injector. After initial starter doses, injections are every 2
to 4 weeks.
Infliximab and vedolizumab are given as infusions at a doctor's office or clinic every 8 weeks.
Ustekinumab and mirikizumab involve a
one-time infusion followed by self-injections
every 4 to 8 weeks.
Administration
Approved biologics
Biologics are targeted therapies doctors prescribe to treat moderate to severe UC that has not responded to other treatments.
UC may be due to an overactive immune response, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the gut.
It sends too many white blood cells to the
lining of the colon, which causes inflammation and ulcers.
Biologics target specific proteins in the immune system involved in this inflammatory process.
Integrin receptor antagonists stop cells that cause inflammation from moving out of blood vessels and into the gut. Vedolizumab (Entyvio) has approval for UC.
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Biologics for ulcerative colitis
adalimumab (Humira)
infliximab (Remicade)
golimumab (Simponi)
Antitumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents block TNF-alpha, a protein that causes inflammation in the gut and other organs. Options include:
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A doctor may also prescribe a biosimilar —
a drug highly similar to an approved biologic.
ustekinumab (Stelara)
mirikizumab (Omvoh)
Interleukin-12/23 antagonists target
interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, proteins that cause inflammation in the gut. Options include:
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discoloration, bruising, swelling, or pain
at the injection site
headaches
Other potential side effects include:
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Biologics are generally considered safe, but they may cause some side effects.
Biologics affect parts of the immune system, so they may increase the risk of certain infections.
A doctor may test a person for infections such
as tuberculosis and hepatitis B before starting
a biologic.
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Side effects
fever
chills
hives
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While everyone responds to biologics differently, many people with UC notice an improvement in their symptoms 8 weeks after starting treatment. Others may experience more immediate results.
Effectiveness
est. read time: 6 min
Treatment guide:
Treatment guide:
According to 2023 research, biologics are
effective at bringing UC into remission. This is when symptoms of UC resolve, and the condition does not interfere with daily life.