What are the biologic agents for inflammatory bowel disease?

Biologics currently used abroad for IBD treatment are divided into 2 categories, namely tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) monoclonal antibodies and adhesion molecule inhibitors. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) monoclonal antibodies – These biologics include infliximab (IFX), adalimumab and certolizumabpegol, of which IFX is the most used. IFX was administered at 5-10 mg/kg intravenously at weeks 0, 2, 6, and every 8 weeks thereafter. The latter two are better tolerated in humans. The use of natalizumab, an adhesion molecule inhibitor, is strictly limited due to its non-selective effect on integrin α4β1/MabACM-1, which may result in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Patients with IBD should only use natalizumab when anti-TNF-α agents are ineffective and after rigorous screening.