What are the side effects of Vedolizumab?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 52-year-old male experiencing severe abdominal pain, recurrent diarrhea, and vomiting for the past month. My doctor diagnosed me with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and recommended Vedolizumab. After taking the medicine for two days, I am now dealing with severe itching, rashes on my hands and body, and coughing. Could these symptoms indicate the worsening of the disease or are they side effects? What should I do at this point? Are there alternative treatments for IBD, and is this a lifelong condition? Please suggest lifestyle modifications that may help prevent the worsening of the disease. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Vedolizumab is a medication used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. While it can be an effective treatment for many individuals, you may be experiencing side effects from the medication, such as itching, rashes, and coughing. Like any medication, Vedolizumab may cause side effects in some people. Here are some common side effects associated with Vedolizumab:

Infusion reactions: Some people may experience infusion reactions, such as fever, chills, and low blood pressure, during or shortly after the infusion. These reactions are usually mild to moderate and can be managed with medication and close monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Infections: Vedolizumab can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections. It is essential to report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms, to your healthcare provider immediately.
Skin reactions: Some people may experience skin reactions, such as rashes or itching, during or shortly after the infusion. These reactions are usually mild to moderate and can be managed with medication and close monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Allergic reactions: In rare cases, people may have an allergic reaction to vedolizumab, which can cause symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience nausea and vomiting during or shortly after the infusion. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and can be managed with medication and close monitoring by a healthcare provider.

It is essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider immediately, especially if they are severe or concerning. Your healthcare provider may also recommend adjustments to your medication regimen or alternative treatments based on your specific circumstances. In the meantime, I suggest you stop taking the medicine until the doctor changes it to a medication that does not cause adverse reactions. I suggest you follow the below-mentioned instructions:

Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet that is rich in fiber and low in fat and spice can help manage IBD symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate IBD symptoms. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help improve overall health and prevent flare-ups by reducing stress levels and promoting healthy bowel movements.
Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen IBD symptoms and increase the risk of complications. Quitting smoking is an essential step in managing the disease.
Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and can help prevent flare-ups by reducing stress levels and promoting healthy bowel movements.

I hope this has helped you. Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.