There is positive news for individuals suffering from Crohn’s disease as a UK NHS GP discusses a newly approved treatment for the condition. Crohn’s disease is a chronic ailment that causes inflammation in the gut, impacting approximately one in every 650 people, according to BUPA UK.
The new treatment, known as omvoh or mirikizumab, marks a significant development as it targets IL-23, a key cytokine responsible for driving inflammation in Crohn’s disease, as explained by Dr. Sami in a TikTok video. By blocking IL-23, mirikizumab aids in reducing inflammation, facilitating the healing of the bowel, and addressing symptoms like fatigue, pain, bleeding, and irregular bowel movements associated with the disease.
This innovative drug, endorsed by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), is expected to alleviate pain, bloating, bleeding, and promote more consistent bowel movements for patients. Additionally, it may reduce the need for bowel surgery and stomas among Crohn’s sufferers.
Clinical trials have shown promising results, with one in four patients achieving remission within 12 weeks, and 45% experiencing remission after a year compared to 20% on a placebo. Many patients have reported sustained symptom relief for up to three years, eliminating the need for steroid treatments or other Crohn’s medications during this period.
Although mirikizumab has demonstrated visible bowel healing in patients, it is essential to note potential side effects such as an increased risk of infections, headaches, cold symptoms, and elevated liver tests. Therefore, the drug is prescribed under specialist supervision to mitigate these risks.
Dr. Sami emphasized that mirikizumab will be accessible to eligible Crohn’s patients in England within 30 days and in Wales within 60 days. Crohn’s and Colitis UK has further information online, confirming NICE’s recommendation of mirikizumab as a treatment option for adults with moderately or severely active Crohn’s.
Patients will receive the initial three doses of mirikizumab intravenously and subsequent injections under the skin every four weeks to manage Crohn’s symptoms effectively.