What biologics treat Crohn’s and what if they fail?

Posted by sandyjr @sandyjr, Dec 29, 2021

My daughter has Crohn’s and has used Entyvio and Stelara and they have not worked. The next choice is Remicade. What if this one doesn’t work? Are there any others? After the biologics, what drugs are used and can the biologics be tried again at a later date?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Digestive Health Support Group.

Hi.

She has already tried the heavy hitters. Everyone is different, but I had very little luck with any of them to tell you the truth.

I did have a short run of luck with Humira. Did a great job clearing up my skin issues too.

It may be different for Crohn's, but for UC the biologics are normally the last drugs used, and I've never heard of anyone trying one a second time. That is most likely more about cost than their effectiveness.

What's next after those? Well, for me it was surgery. I had UC though so it's a bit easier since my disease was primarily in my large intestine and rectum. She would have more variables to her decision.

It's a tough decision, but for me it worked out well.

How old is she? How long has she been dealing with this?

I wish her luck with the next med. Hopefully that will be the one.

REPLY

I've had Chron's for over 30 years and have been in remission for many years. Because of recurring polyps at the Ileocecal junction and narrowing of the junction over the past two years, my doctor wants me to start Stelara to avoid a risk for future bowel blockage. In past, doctors encouraged biologics but I resisted and have been stable on mesalamine for a very long time. I'm really anxious about starting a biologic, especially since I am in remission, and after reading about the risks; especially for skin cancer. I have a history of basal cell skin cancer (2013-2015). Anyone in remission who started on Stelara, or have a history of skin cancer?

REPLY

Hi @dg0797, thank you for your post. You will see that I moved it to a discussion about biologics and Crohn's so you can connect with other members that have similar questions.
Is the risk of skin cancer only if you are overly exposed to the sun while on it or just from taking the medication?

REPLY

Thank you for letting me know about the biologics group. I am not sure if the increased risk is with over exposure while on Stelara or just an increased risk overall. A good question for me to ask the doctor. Thank you!

REPLY
Please sign in or register to post a reply.