Vedolizumab for Crohn's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests vedolizumab, a medication studied for its effectiveness in treating Crohn's disease affecting the small bowel. The goal is to determine if vedolizumab can lead to long-term improvement and to identify new blood markers that could predict the treatment's effectiveness over time. Suitable participants have Crohn's disease limited to the small bowel or ileocecal area and are beginning treatment with vedolizumab. As a Phase 4 trial, this research aims to understand how an FDA-approved and effective treatment can benefit more patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants can be on vedolizumab with or without thiopurines or methotrexate, which suggests you might be able to continue some medications.
What is the safety track record for vedolizumab?
Research has shown that vedolizumab is generally safe. Studies found that people using vedolizumab experienced slightly higher infection rates than those taking a placebo, but these were not significantly concerning. Serious infections occurred rarely, and most participants tolerated the treatment well.
A meta-analysis, which combines results from several studies, found that serious infections and reactions to the drug were uncommon. Overall, vedolizumab is considered safe and effective for adults with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease.
While health authorities have not yet approved vedolizumab for children, they have approved it for adults, indicating strong confidence in its safety for adult patients.12345Why are researchers enthusiastic about this study treatment?
Vedolizumab is unique because it specifically targets the gut, reducing inflammation by blocking a protein called integrin α4β7. Unlike other treatments for Crohn's disease, which might suppress the immune system more broadly, Vedolizumab focuses on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially minimizing side effects. Researchers are excited about its ability to provide relief for patients who haven't responded well to standard treatments like corticosteroids or TNF inhibitors. Additionally, the option for dose escalation offers flexibility in managing the disease based on individual patient needs.
What is the effectiveness track record for vedolizumab in treating small bowel Crohn's disease?
Research has shown that vedolizumab effectively treats Crohn's disease. In one study, 39% of participants taking vedolizumab went into remission after a year, compared to 22% of those taking a placebo (a pill with no active medicine). Another study found that individuals who had not previously used similar drugs had a better chance of staying on vedolizumab and reaching remission. Additionally, vedolizumab helped many patients achieve remission as early as six weeks. Overall, vedolizumab is considered a strong option for managing Crohn's disease symptoms.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Parakkal Deepak, MBBS, MS
Principal Investigator
Washington University School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with moderate to severe Crohn's Disease affecting only the small bowel or ileocecal area, who are starting treatment with Vedolizumab, possibly alongside thiopurines or methotrexate. It excludes those unable to consent, pregnant individuals, patients with colonic involvement beyond the ascending colon and cecum, contraindications for MRE like chronic kidney disease or incompatible medical devices, and anyone planning surgery before follow-up MRE.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive vedolizumab 300 mg IV at 0, 2, and 6 weeks, followed by maintenance dosing at week 14
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for radiological transmural response and clinical remission
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Vedolizumab
Vedolizumab is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Washington University School of Medicine
Lead Sponsor