Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α monotherapy versus combination therapy with an immunomodulator in IBD

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment has progressed significantly over the past decade with the advent of biologics. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents are the most widely available biologics, but the optimal approach when using them remains unclear. In this review, we highlight the currently available evidence regarding the use of anti-TNF monotherapy versus combination therapy with an immunomodulator. We focus on those patients at greatest risk for adverse events and outline the clinical approach when considering the use of combination therapy. We review the available tools through which providers may efficiently communicate these data to patients in the clinical setting.

Keywords: Anti-TNF; Combination therapy; Immunomodulator; Monotherapy.