Efficacy and safety of a third anti-TNF monoclonal antibody in Crohn's disease after failure of two other anti-TNF.

Adalimumab (ADA) and certolizumab pegol (CZP) have demonstrated efficacy in Crohn's disease (CD) patients previously treated with infliximab (IFX). Aim: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of a third anti-TNF in CD after failure of and/or intolerance to two different anti-TNF. Methods: CD patients who received ADA or CZP after loss of response and/or intolerance to two anti-TNF were included in this retrospective study. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Clinical response, duration, safety and reasons for discontinuation were assessed. Results: Sixty-seven patients treated with CZP (n=40) or ADA (n=27) were included. A clinical response was observed in 41 (61%) at week 6 and 34 patients (51%) at week 20. The probability of remaining under treatment at 3 months, 6 months and 9 months was 68%, 60% and 45%, respectively. At the end of follow-up, the third anti-TNF had been stopped in 36 patients for intolerance (n=13), or failure (n=23). Two deaths were observed. Conclusion: Treatment, with a third anti-TNF (CZP or ADA) agent, of CD patients who have experienced loss of response and/or intolerance to two anti-TNF antibodies, has favorable short- and long-term efficacy and is an option to be considered in patients with no other therapeutic options.