Besides Remicade, what other medications can be used for inflammatory bowel disease?

I have Ulcerative colitis and have been treated with Remicade, which seems to be losing effectiveness. Can any of the other biologics be used?

There are currently three other biologics that are FDA approved for inflammatory bowel disease, but currently only Remicade is approved for Ulcerative Colitis. Humira, Cimzia and Tysabri have been used for Crohn's, with Humira currently undergoing phase 3 trials in Ulcerative Colitis. Results are promising, and it likely will not be that long until Humira does receive approval in Ulcerative Colitis.

Some physicians are prescribing Humira off-label for Ulcerative colitis, with good results. It likely however will be difficult to get this very expensive drug covered by your insurance company until FDA approval is granted. Some physicians have been successful getting approval in patients who have failed or become intolerant to Remicade, so you should check with your physician to see if Humira is an option for you.