Update on anti-tumor necrosis factor agents in Crohn disease

Abstract

Anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF) agents, including infliximab, adalimumab, and certolizumab pegol, are effective medications for the management of moderate to severe Crohn disease (CD). They are effective in inducing and maintaining clinical remission, inducing mucosal healing, improving quality of life, and reducing the risk of hospitalization and surgery in adult and pediatric patients with CD. Future research into comparative effectiveness of different agents, as well as better understanding of predictors of response, is warranted to allow optimization of therapeutic response.

Keywords: Adalimumab; Anti-tumor necrosis factor; Certolizumab pegol; Crohn disease; Infliximab.