See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Entyvio Infusion treatments.
Entyvio is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- Moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in adults
- Moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults
What is Entyvio?
What is Entyvio?
Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a unique gastrointestinal-focused biologic (aka GI-focused biologic). This integrin receptor antagonist is unique in that it is the only GI-focused biologic available for the treatment of moderately-to-severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). Adult patients receive Entyvio as a solution that is administered via intravenous infusion (aka IV infusion).
How Does Entyvio Work?
When an individual has Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, an increase in the number of WBCs within the GI tract causes inflammation, which results in the development of the symptoms associated with CD and UC. Entyvio specifically targets the gastrointestinal tract to prevent excess WBCs from entering, thus controlling inflammation and reducing the symptoms of UC and CD.
Entyvio Infusion Dosage & Administration
Entyvio Infusion Dosage and Administration
When starting Entyvio, the patient receives infusions at weeks 0, 2 and 6. After the sixth week, the patient receives infusions every 8 weeks. If a patient reaches week 14 and does not have evidence to prove he or she is benefitting from these treatments, Entyvio Infusion therapy should be discontinued.
While having an infusion of Entyvio, patients can expect the procedure to be identical to, or closely resemble, the steps below.
- A nurse carefully inserts a small, very thin catheter into one of the patient’s arm veins.
- Following insertion of the IV line, the nurse connects the tube coming down from the 300 mg bag or bottle of medication to the patient’s IV.
- After connecting the tube to the patient’s IV, the Entyvio infusion begins.
- An Entyvio infusion usually takes about 30 minutes.
During the infusion, patients are encouraged to relax, unwind, and enjoy themselves by catching up on a favorite show or surfing the web. If patients need assistance, simply press the call button, and one of the IVX team members will be right in.
Dependent on the prescribed regimen and tolerance from the patient, the nurse may initially begin the infusion at a lower concentration, slowly increasing the concentration of Entyvio as the treatment continues. On the day of their Entyvio infusion, patients may consider bringing a driver with them as the referring physician may want the patient to refrain from driving.
Entyvio Side Effects
Following the Infusion
Since serious allergic reactions may not become evident for several hours following treatment, patients need to have an adult remain with them overnight. Symptoms that warrant immediate treatment include a fast heart rate, shortness of breath, itching/a rash or flushing.
All medications can cause side effects.
Possible side effects following an Entyvio infusion include:
- A headache
- Back pain
- Symptoms similar to the common cold
- An upset stomach
- Joint pain
- Feeling weak or fatigued
- Pain in the extremities
- Irritation of the throat or nose
This is not a complete list of the possible side effects. Individuals who are concerned about experiencing side effects need to contact their physician for medical advice.
Preparing for Your Entyvio Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Entyvio Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Entyvio Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Entyvio Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Entyvio
Every Entyvio Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- Moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in adults
- Moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Entyvio treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Entyvio treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
