Positioning biologics and new therapies in the management of inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

Purpose of review: Since the advent of anti-tumour necrosis factor agents, knowledge of their optimal use and their pitfalls has grown exponentially. However, the range of therapeutic agents available to clinicians and patients is expanding, creating challenging decisions about which drugs to use at any given time point. The present review aims to provide a framework within which positioning decisions can be made in the context of limited comparative effectiveness data.

Recent findings: The present review will summarize the current literature emphasizing how best to use biologic agents, and will provide suggestions as to how they should be positioned. Recent trials comparing efficacy and safety will be considered as will their strengths and weaknesses.

Summary: On reading this review, clinicians should have an understanding of the optimal use of currently approved biologic agents and tofacitinib and how they might be positioned in relation to one another.