Yes, the Entyvio was the first biologic I tried. It is “gut specific” and from what I have read about all the biologics for UC, it was the one I felt “almost” comfortable taking. I resisted any and all biologics initially because of the side effects, and the fact that they do compromise your immune system. In my case, the bleeding was so bad, the UC was “fulminant” and my GI doctor advised me to see a colorectal surgeon ASAP. That’s when I realized I had to do whatever it took, so I agreed to try the Entyvio. While waiting for insurance approval, I was taking oral prednisone to help reduce the inflammation. I was able to taper off of that within a few weeks. My loading doses of the Entyvio were 0-2-6 weeks and then every 8 weeks after that. It took about 6 weeks for the bleeding to stop and for the pain to subside. The C-reactive protein and Calprotectin numbers were within normal ranges within 3 months. I also believe the plant based diet has helped tremendously too - no animal products, no dairy, no eggs. I suppose you can call it a vegan like diet and there are several great sites out there with wonderful recipes. I have been maintaining my weight since July too, which is wonderful, as I was down below 100 pounds. My doctor had also recommended a probiotic that used to be called VSL#3, which has been significantly helpful!!! The name this original formula goes by now is Visbiome and it is a fantastic product. I take 2 a day (one after breakfast and one after dinner). They are expensive ($50 for 60 capsules) but worth every dime! Visbiome is the one to get. So, next week I am scheduled for another Entyvio infusion and I am still feeling good. I am in clinical remission and the colonoscopy will determine if the mucosal lining has improved too. Entyvio is FDA approved for dosing every 8 weeks but some people respond better with every 4 or 6 week dosing, which their doctors can get approval for. I would be concerned if I were still bleeding and still had the urgency, as it doesn’t sound like the medication you’re on is effective. That’s a discussion you would need to have with your doctor.... perhaps you can ask about Entyvio? I am one that loves to research and many of the conversations I’ve had with my doctor are based on clinical trials and other things I have read. He’s always a step ahead and is aware of anything I bring him. He’s brilliant, he listens and he cares about his patients! This is a horrible disease and it has altered my life tremendously! It is indeed a journey, one that I have not enjoyed.... but we do what we have to do and learn all we can learn to do the best we can to reclaim some quality of life! I wish you luck and remission!

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