What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Celltrion, a leading biopharmaceutical company, presented real-world data at the UEG Week 2025 Meet the Expert sessions, demonstrating the efficacy and safety of switching from intravenous (IV) to subcutaneous (SC) infliximab for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The data, presented by Professor Nicolas Mathieu and Professor Anthony Buisson, highlighted that the switch is well tolerated and maintains high treatment persistence. The multicentric, prospective PEREM real-life cohort study showed that over 95% of patients in remission remained on therapy after one year. The SC formulation was found to be effective and safe even in challenging cases, such as obesity and complicated phenotypes. The SC infliximab also showed promising results in patients with active perianal lesions.
Why It's Important?
The findings are significant as they offer a more convenient and potentially more consistent treatment option for IBD patients. The SC formulation of infliximab, approved in 60 countries including the U.S., provides a fixed dose that enhances treatment options by ensuring consistent drug exposure. This development could lead to improved patient adherence and outcomes, reducing the burden on healthcare systems by offering a more sustainable delivery method. The ability to switch from IV to SC infliximab without compromising efficacy or safety could benefit patients who prefer less frequent hospital visits and more autonomy in managing their treatment.
What's Next?
The positive data from the real-world studies may encourage broader adoption of the SC infliximab formulation among healthcare providers and patients. As the SC formulation gains traction, it could lead to further research and potential expansion of its use in other therapeutic areas. Healthcare systems might also consider integrating this approach into standard care practices, potentially influencing insurance coverage and reimbursement policies. Continued monitoring and additional studies could further validate these findings and support the long-term use of SC infliximab in diverse patient populations.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift from IV to SC infliximab could have broader implications for patient quality of life and healthcare delivery models. By reducing the need for frequent hospital visits, patients may experience improved convenience and satisfaction with their treatment. This change could also alleviate some of the pressures on healthcare facilities, allowing resources to be allocated more efficiently. Additionally, the success of SC infliximab might inspire similar innovations in other biologic treatments, potentially transforming the landscape of chronic disease management.
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