Vedolizumab is used to treat inflammation of the intestine, colon and rectum.
Vedolizumab injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of Vedolizumab will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment depending on your condition, effectiveness of the therapy, and your tolerability to this medicine.
This medicine must be administered regularly for it to be effective. Continue Vedolizumab therapy even when you feel better. Do not stop your treatment unless instructed by the doctor.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Vedolizumab.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Do not use Vedolizumab if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.
Alert your doctor if you have an untreated and active severe infection as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of severe or long-term infection.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- a screening test for tuberculosis (TB, a lung infection) may be needed before starting the therapy
- routine liver function test may be done while you are being treated with this medicine
- regular monitoring of signs and symptoms of infection
Your doctor will advise you about how often you will need to have these tests.
Vedolizumab may cause dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, headache, sore throat, cough, colds, fever, weakness, indigestion, constipation, stomach wind and discomfort, watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, acne, tingling, or prickling sensation (pins and needles), sore anus, muscle spasm, joint pain, back pain, muscle weakness, itching, rashes or rash which may ooze or become crusty, night sweats, and chest pain.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- blurred, loss of or double vision, difficulty speaking, persistent numbness, memory loss or confusion, facial drooping
- difficulty breathing, wheezing, flushing, rash, hives, fast heartbeat
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using medicines which may suppress your immune system e.g. natalizumab, infliximab.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.