Would the new drug Entyvio be more effective and appropriate for an expectant mother than Mesavant?

34-year-old woman8 years ago
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34-year-old woman · 8 years ago
I have had ulcerative colitis for over 5 years. I recently had a "relapse", and I had one when I was pregnant a year ago (I had stopped the medication early in my pregnancy). I heard about the new drug Entyvio (vedolizumab) in the news article last week about inflammatory bowel disease. Thank you so much!
Genevieve Duperron · 8 years ago
This is a very complex question. I will try to answer it as best I can.
Genevieve Duperron · 8 years ago
First, ideally, you should try to plan a pregnancy in a period when the disease is less active (a few months after your relapse). Introducing folic acid at a rate of 5 mg EID min. 3 months before conception is suggested (your doctor can prescribe it for you). Indeed, compared to the general population, the risk of prematurity, low birth weight (weight < 2500 g), intrauterine growth retardation and the risk of spontaneous or therapeutic miscarriage are increased in patients with intestinal disease. But, rest assured, there is no additional risk of birth defects.
Genevieve Duperron · 8 years ago
One of the safest medications for pregnant women is sulfasalazine. We have a lot of experience with this drug. Vedolizumab has not been studied in pregnant women and at this time the company that manufactures it does not recommend pregnancy within 18 weeks of the last dose of medication. Remicade, a biologic that is usually prescribed before Entyvio, seems to be an option in pregnancy for very severe cases, but it would not be my first choice if the disease does not require it. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions

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