What is Entyvio?
Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a prescription medicine used to treat certain inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). It belongs to a drug class known as integrin receptor antagonists. Unlike general immune-suppressing drugs, Entyvio works in a targeted way by blocking the movement of inflammatory cells into the gut.
Entyvio is available as:
- Entyvio infusion (given through IV in a clinic)
- Entyvio injection/pen (self-administered at home after training)
The medicine is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals, a well-known global drug company.
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Entyvio Uses
So, what is Entyvio prescribed for? Doctors usually recommend Entyvio for adults with:
- Ulcerative colitis (UC): A condition causing inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon.
- Crohn’s disease (CD): A chronic inflammatory disease that affects the digestive tract.
Entyvio is often prescribed when other medicines like steroids, immunomodulators, or anti-TNF drugs fail to work.
How Entyvio Works?
Entyvio is not a chemotherapy drug. If you are wondering, is Entyvio a chemo drug? the answer is no. Instead of killing cancer cells, it specifically targets the gut’s immune response.
It blocks α4β7 integrin, a protein that allows inflammatory white blood cells to enter the intestine. By preventing this, Entyvio reduces gut inflammation without affecting the rest of the body.
Entyvio Dosage
The Entyvio dose depends on the condition and the form prescribed.
For Entyvio Infusion (IV):
- First dose at week 0
- Second dose at week 2
- Third dose at week 6
- After that, once every 8 weeks
For Entyvio Pen/Injection (subcutaneous):
- 108 mg every 2 weeks
Your doctor will decide whether infusion or injection is best for you.
Entyvio Side Effects
Like every medicine, Entyvio can cause mild to serious side effects.
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Fever
- Cold-like symptoms
Serious Side Effects (rare):
- Allergic reactions (swelling, breathing problems)
- Liver problems (yellow eyes/skin)
- Serious infections
- Brain inflammation (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy – very rare)
If you face unusual or severe problems, contact your doctor immediately.
Warnings Before Taking Entyvio
Before starting Entyvio, keep these warnings in mind:
- Do not take if you have severe infections.
- Inform your doctor if you have tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis, or liver disease.
- Live vaccines should be avoided while on treatment.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss risks with their doctor.
Entyvio Interactions
Entyvio generally has fewer drug interactions compared to other IBD medicines. But you must tell your doctor about:
- Immunosuppressants (azathioprine, cyclosporine)
- Biologics (infliximab, adalimumab)
- Any long-term antibiotics or antifungals
This helps prevent complications and ensures maximum safety.
Entyvio Cost
One of the biggest concerns patients have is the cost. How much does Entyvio cost?
- In the U.S., Entyvio infusion costs around $6,000–$7,500 per dose without insurance.
- With insurance or patient assistance programs, the price may be much lower.
- The Entyvio pen is also expensive but may be covered by health insurance plans.
If you are searching for affordability, always ask your doctor about patient assistance programs offered by the manufacturer.
FAQs About Entyvio
1. What is Entyvio prescribed for?
It is used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease in adults who have not responded to other treatments.
2. Is Entyvio a chemo drug?
No, Entyvio is not chemotherapy. It is a biologic therapy designed for gut inflammation.
3. How much does Entyvio cost?
The cost varies, but it can be between $6,000–$7,500 per dose in the U.S. before insurance.
4. How long does it take for Entyvio to work?
Some patients feel relief in a few weeks, while others may need up to 14 weeks.
5. What is the Entyvio manufacturer?
Entyvio is made by Takeda Pharmaceuticals.
6. Can I self-inject Entyvio?
Yes, with the Entyvio pen, patients can inject themselves after training from a healthcare provider.
