Research in Progress (RIP): "Trends and Effects of the Use of Biologic Therapy for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis"

Please note: All research in progress seminars are off-the-record. Any information about methodology and/or results are embargoed until publication.

Abstract:

Ulcerative colitis is typically treated with medications including steroids and immunomodulators; patients refractory to medications undergo curative surgical resection of the colon and rectum. In 2005, biologic therapy was approved for ulcerative colitis as it improves short-term remission rates, but the long-term clinical benefit is unknown. The aims of the study are to assess the effect of biologics on the need for surgery in ulcerative colitis, describe treatment patterns for ulcerative colitis, and measure the economic impact of biologic therapy in the management of the disease.  Results demonstrate an increase in the use of biologics for ulcerative colitis, no change in rates of surgery for ulcerative colitis after approval of biologics, and dramatically increased overall costs.