Switch to vedolizumab (entyvio®) subcutaneous injections

Vedolizumab infusions versus Vedolizumab injections

There are now two formulations of vedolizumab available for treatment of your inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In addition to the intravenous infusion, which is given to you at the day infusion unit, there are now injectable versions which can be self-administered at home.

Will subcutaneous injections work as well as the as intravenous infusions?

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved the safety of the subcutaneous injections, and the company has demonstrated in large clinical trials that the two formulations are equally safe and effective. The IBD team will also monitor you during the switch and will arrange a telephone appointment with a member of the team within the first few months of you switching formulations.

Side effects

You are no more likely to experience side effects on subcutaneous vedolizumab than

you would with intravenous vedolizumab. You may experience a small reaction at the injection site, but the homecare nurses will train you on how to inject yourself correctly and safely, to minimise the risk of this. The IBD team will continue to monitor you closely and would like you to let us know if you do experience any side effects with the new formulation.

What is the type of subcutaneous vedolizumab available?

Vedolizumab is available as a pre-filled pen.

When will the switch happen?

You will switch to the new formulation of vedolizumab eight weeks after your last intravenous infusion. This will be done at home, and you will no longer need to attend the hospital for your infusions.

Monitoring

You do not need any extra monitoring when switching to subcutaneous vedolizumab. But as you will not be attending the hospital for your infusions, you will no longer be having your regular blood monitoring required for your treatment. This means you must have your monitoring blood tests (FBC, U+E, LFT and CRP) every three-four month via your GP. Or if you prefer, you can still attend Barnet Hospital.

Please let us know if you would like to attend the hospital for your blood tests, so that one of the team can arrange this for you. If you have blood tests via your GP, please make sure the results are sent to the IBD team so they can be reviewed and monitored.  Any delays in blood tests may lead to a delay in your injection prescription being released, which may delay your treatment.

Receiving subcutaneous injections

We will arrange for a homecare company to deliver this medication to your home. A homecare nurse will teach you how to inject the medication yourself. Sciensus will deliver your medication. They will get in contact with you via telephone to arrange the deliveries and initial nurse visit.

Please keep track of when your next injection is due. This is to avoid missing or delaying your treatment. If you have any problems with your deliveries, contact Sciensus on 0333 103 9811 directly.

Will I be shown how to use the subcutaneous injections?

A nurse will visit your home to show you how to use the pre-filled pen. They will be able to visit two or three times if needed, until you feel comfortable with injecting yourself.

How often to inject

You will need to inject yourself every two weeks. Your first subcutaneous injection should be administered eight weeks after your last intravenous infusion. You will then need to inject every two weeks.

What do I do if I am having problems with subcutaneous vedolizumab?

We are only recommending subcutaneous vedolizumab because we are confident that it is as safe and effective as your current vedolizumab infusions. We do not expect you to experience problems because of switching. You will be monitored closely during this change. However, if you have any problems or concerns regarding your treatment, after you have switched, then contact us.