The efficacy and safety of a third anti‐TNF monoclonal antibody in Crohn’s disease after failure of two other anti‐TNF antibodies

Abstract

Adalimumab (ADA) and certolizumab pegol (CZP) have demonstrated efficacy in Crohn's disease (CD) patients previously treated with infliximab (IFX). To assess the efficacy and tolerability of a third anti-TNF in CD after failure of and/or intolerance to two different anti-TNF antibodies. Crohn's disease patients who received ADA or CZP after loss of response and/or intolerance to two anti-TNF agent were included in this retrospective study. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Clinical response, duration, safety and reasons for discontinuation were assessed. Sixty-seven patients treated with CZP (n = 40) or ADA (n = 27) were included. A clinical response was observed in 41 (61%) at week 6 and 34 patients (51%) at week 20. The probability of remaining under treatment at 3 months, 6 months and 9 months was 68%, 60% and 45%, respectively. At the end of follow-up, the third anti-TNF had been stopped in 36 patients for intolerance (n = 13), or failure (n = 23). Two deaths were observed. The treatment with a third anti-TNF (CZP or ADA) agent of CD patients, who have experienced loss of response and/or intolerance to two anti-TNF antibodies, has favourable short-term and long-term efficacy. It is an option to be considered in patients with no other therapeutic options.