If you’re managing Crohn’s Disease, finding the right treatment is crucial to living a healthier, more comfortable life. One of the most effective options available is Entyvio (vedolizumab) infusion therapy. This powerful medication helps control symptoms and manage the progression of Crohn’s. At Vital Care, you can receive Entyvio infusions that make a positive impact on your journey with Crohn’s. This targeted therapy helps manage symptoms and improve your quality of life, offering relief where it’s needed most.
How Entyvio Treats Crohn’s Disease
Entyvio is a biologic medication specifically designed to treat moderate to severe Crohn’s Disease. It works by targeting and blocking the action of a specific protein that causes inflammation in the gut. Unlike other treatments that suppress the entire immune system, Entyvio focuses on reducing inflammation only in the gastrointestinal tract, minimizing side effects and allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life. This makes Entyvio an effective Crohn’s Disease medication. Patients enjoy having Entyvio infusions at Vital Care, as it gives them “me time” to focus on their health, both physical and mental. Having it administered by a professional provides comfort and a sense of safety when receiving treatment.
The Infusion Process
At Vital Care, your Entyvio treatment begins with an intravenous infusion administered by a healthcare professional in a comfortable clinical setting. The first three infusions are given over a six-week period, followed by maintenance infusions every eight weeks. This schedule ensures that the medication is steadily introduced into your system, providing consistent relief from Crohn’s symptoms. Within the first year of use, patients can expect a 300 mg flat dose over approximately 8 infusions, each lasting around 30 minutes. However, infusion amounts may vary depending on the patient’s specific prescription.
Patients often report significant improvement in their symptoms, including reduced abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. While Entyvio is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it can cause side effects, including:
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Rash or itching at the injection site
It’s important to discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure your treatment plan is optimized for your needs.
Why Choose Vital Care for Entyvio Infusions?
Choosing the right infusion center is just as important as choosing the right medication. Vital Care in San Angelo is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care to all our patients. Our registered nurses have specialized training in infusion therapy, ensuring that your Entyvio treatment is administered safely and effectively. Additionally, we offer ongoing support and education, helping you manage your Crohn’s with confidence. If Entyvio isn’t a fit for you, we work with your doctor to offer other medications such as Stelara as an alternative.
Consult Your Doctor Before Starting Entyvio at our Pharmacy in San Angelo, TX
Entyvio is contraindicated in patients with a known serious or severe hypersensitivity reaction to Entyvio or any of its excipients. Your doctor should check you for TB before starting Entyvio. They should also watch closely for signs and symptoms of TB while you are being treated with Entyvio. If your doctor feels that you’re at risk for TB, you should be treated with medicine for TB before and during your Crohn’s treatment. Do not start taking Entyvio if you have an infection unless the doctor says it’s okay.
When taking Entyvio, patients may experience common symptoms including:
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Fever
- Upper respiratory tract infection and bronchitis
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Recurring cough
- Back pain
- Itchy skin or rash
- Sore throat
Serious conditions include:
- Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention
- Reduced ability to fight infection
- Serious infections, such as tuberculosis (TB) and sepsis, which can occur in rare cases
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare viral infection of the brain that can damage the coating that protects nerves in the brain
Warnings and Precautions
- Infusion-Related and Hypersensitivity Reactions: Patients receiving Entyvio may experience severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, breathing difficulties, rashes, and increased blood pressure. These reactions can occur during or several hours after the infusion. If serious reactions occur, stop Entyvio immediately and start appropriate treatment.
- Infections: Entyvio increases the risk of serious infections, including sepsis, tuberculosis, and meningitis. It’s not recommended for patients with active severe infections, and treatment should be paused if a severe infection develops during use. Patients with a history of recurring severe infections should be monitored carefully, and screening for tuberculosis may be necessary.
- Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): PML is a rare, often fatal brain infection associated with immunosuppressants. While the risk with Entyvio is low, it cannot be completely ruled out. Patients should be monitored for new or worsening neurological symptoms, and if PML is suspected, Entyvio should be stopped and the patient referred to a neurologist.
- Liver Injury: Some patients on Entyvio have experienced elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin levels, indicating potential liver damage. If significant liver injury occurs, Entyvio should be discontinued.
- Live and Oral Vaccines: Patients should be up-to-date on all immunizations before starting Entyvio. While non-live vaccines are generally safe during treatment, live vaccines should only be given if the benefits outweigh the risks.
If you suffer from Crohn’s or have ulcerative colitis, contact Vital Care today to get the relief you need!
