Finding the Right Biologic to Treat Your Crohn’s Disease
In recent years, biologic therapy has emerged as a revolutionary approach in the treatment of moderate to severe Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), particularly Crohn’s Disease.
As doctors increasingly turn to biologics for a more targeted and effective solution in the hopes of achieving complete disease control, a collaborative effort between you and your healthcare teams becomes imperative.
Watch the Video: Finding the Right Biologic to Treat Your Crohn’s Disease
The Rise of Biologic Therapy
Biologic drugs have become a cornerstone in managing Crohn’s Disease, offering hope and relief for patients with moderate to severe symptoms.
Recognizing the importance of timely intervention, many healthcare providers are now incorporating biologics into treatment plans to address the underlying inflammation and improve overall quality of life.
Because biologics target specific proteins in your body that are known to cause inflammation, choosing the right one for you requires careful consideration and analysis of different factors.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Biologic Therapy
If your doctor recommends biologic therapy to help manage your Crohn’s disease, there are different aspects to consider before deciding to start this line of treatment, including:
Disease-Related Factors
Your doctor should consider the following before deciding on a specific biologic drug:
- Location and severity of inflammation.
- Previous treatment responses.
- Presence of extraintestinal manifestations.
Patient-Specific Factors
Everyone experiences IBD differently, and since biologics allow for a more targeted, personalized treatment, the following factors need consideration:
- Age, gender, and overall health.
- Lifestyle considerations and daily activities.
- Personal preferences
- Treatment goals
Insurance
Treatment success largely depends on consistency and compliance. Ensuring you have the right insurance to help you sustain your treatment is vital. Ask your insurance provider about the following:
- Coverage and out-of-pocket considerations
- Authorization and approval processes
Medication-Specific Factors
- Mode of administration (e.g., injection, infusion)
- Frequency of dosing
- Potential side effects and risks
Patient Preference
You are your best advocate, and your preference needs to be a determining factor when choosing the right biologic therapy.
- Informed decision-making
- Open communication with your healthcare providers
- Shared decision-making model
Helpful Tips for Collaborating with Your Doctor
Discuss Current Symptoms and Expected Disease Progression
- Openly communicate symptom severity and frequency
- Discuss the impact of symptoms and possible side effects on your daily activities
- Address concerns about disease progression
Understand the Risks and Benefits of Available Biologic Drugs
- Inquire about potential side effects and risks
- Evaluate treatment benefits concerning your goals
- Consider the impact on long-term disease management
Keep an Open Dialogue
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek clarification
- Openly discuss any concerns or fears related to biologic therapy
- Provide feedback on treatment experiences; this will help your doctor to make informed decisions regarding future therapies.
Empowering Yourself through Proactive Disease Management
In your journey to manage Crohn’s Disease, you can empower yourself by taking a proactive approach to your healthcare.
This involves staying informed about the disease, actively participating in treatment decisions, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare team.
By being proactive, you can contribute to developing a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique circumstances, needs, and preferences.
