The FDA has approved Tremfya (guselkumab) for adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. This is the first time a drug in the IL-23 antagonist class has been approved for both inflammatory bowel diseases. Tremfya was already approved for plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The new approval adds another biologic option for patients who have not responded well to other treatments.
Tremfya is given as an intravenous infusion or a subcutaneous injection. The dosing schedule depends on whether it is used for induction (starting treatment) or maintenance (long term). Before starting Tremfya, doctors should check liver enzyme and bilirubin levels. This is a standard safety step for many biologic drugs.
This approval means more choices for patients living with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. However, it is important to remember that every patient is different. What works for one person may not work for another. The decision to use Tremfya should be made with your doctor, who can help weigh the benefits and risks based on your specific health situation.
If you have inflammatory bowel disease and are considering new treatments, talk to your doctor. They can explain how Tremfya works, what side effects to watch for, and whether it might be a good fit for you. This approval is a step forward, but your doctor remains your best resource for personalized care.