Status of Vedolizumab as First-Line Biologic Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Position Paper from the Working Group IBD Within the ÖGGH

Abstract

Vedolizumab (Entyvio®) is a gut-selective monoclonal IgG1 antibody approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Compared to TNF-α inhibitors, vedolizumab offers comparable response rates in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. In general, vedolizumab has a more favourable side effect profile for serious adverse events and infections, is likely to have a better safety profile in older age and can be safely used if contraindications for TNF-α inhibitors like a class III and IV congestive heart failure are present. In Austria, reimbursement is currently limited to TNF-α inhibitor failure, intolerance or patients with contraindications for these drugs. Vedolizumab as first-line biologic therapy for ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease will currently not be reimbursed in Austria.