The treatment landscape for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rapidly evolving, with the recent FDA approval of guselkumab (Tremfya) for ulcerative colitis (UC) on September 11, 2024, representing a significant milestone. This approval, coupled with other recent advancements, provides clinicians and patients with an expanding array of therapeutic options for managing both Crohn's disease (CD) and UC.
Addressing Unmet Needs in IBD
Andrea Banty, NP, DNP, a nurse practitioner at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, highlighted the importance of these developments at the 2024 annual Gastroenterology and Hepatology Advanced Practice Providers (GHAPP) conference. "It's always helpful to have more options... Having different medications with different mechanisms and actions can help patients find what works for their type of IBD," Banty noted, emphasizing the drive to improve efficacy, reduce side effects, and enhance treatment administration.
Tailoring Treatment to the Patient
With the increasing number of available treatments, Banty emphasized the need for individualized treatment plans. She typically initiates discussions by understanding patient preferences regarding administration methods and their overall treatment goals. A common patient desire is to avoid steroid use, making quick-acting medications particularly valuable to prevent the need for steroid bridging.
Considering Treatment Positioning and Safety
Banty also stressed the importance of considering treatment positioning based on prior biologic exposure and thoroughly assessing potential safety risks in each patient. "A number of things go into the conversation, which makes the conversation really, really important to make sure the patient goals are aligned with what the provider is sharing with the patient," she stated.
The approval of guselkumab and the ongoing development of new therapies signify a promising future for IBD management, offering the potential for more effective and personalized treatment strategies.
