Review article: the use of anti-TNF therapy in inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy and conception

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http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2008.03648.x

Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics

To cite this article: S. O`DONNELL, C. O`MORAIN (2008) Review article: the use of anti-TNF therapy in inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy and conception doi:10.1111/j.1365-2036.2008.03648.x

Review article: the use of anti-TNF therapy in inflammatory bowel disease during pregnancy and conception

S. O`DONNELL & C. O`MORAIN

Department of Gastroenterology, AMNCH/ Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Correspondance:Dr O`DonnellDepartment of GastroenterologyAMNCHTallaghtDublin 24IrelandEmail: odonnes2@...

This article has not been submitted elsewhere

Summary

Background: One of the most frequently asked questions during consultation with those affected by Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is what are its effects on pregnancy, and how will the treatment impact on conception and pregnancy outcomes.

Aim: The aim of this article is to review available data regarding the safety of biological therapies during pregnancy, primarily in woman with IBD.

Methods: A medline search was performed and available original research and review articles relating to the use of biological (Anti-TNF-α) therapies in IBD were reviewed. Where information regarding the use of a drug in IBD during pregnancy was limited, articles referring to its use for other indications, such as rheumatoid arthritis, were reviewed.

Results: Based on available data, biological therapies appear to be safe in pregnancy. Most studies looking at the effects of any one medication on pregnancy in IBD are confounded by the fact that most patients are on multiple medications and have varying levels of disease activity. Stopping therapy in the third trimester should be considered. Large registries with longer follow up periods will be necessary before firm conclusions about the safety of Anti-TNF-α therapies during conception and pregnancy can be drawn.