What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving vedolizumab?
You should not use vedolizumab if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- an active or recent infection;
- liver disease;
- signs of infection such as fever, cough, or flu symptoms;
- if you are scheduled to receive any vaccines.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had tuberculosis or if anyone in your household has tuberculosis. Also tell your doctor if you have recently traveled. Tuberculosis and some fungal infections are more common in certain parts of the world, and you may have been exposed during travel.
You should be up to date with all needed vaccinations before receiving vedolizumab.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Having active UC or Crohn's disease during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature birth or low birth weight. The benefit of treating these conditions may outweigh any risks to the baby.
If you use vedolizumab while you are pregnant, make sure any doctor caring for your new baby knows that you used the medicine during pregnancy. Being exposed to vedolizumab in the womb could affect your baby's vaccination schedule during the first few months of life.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of vedolizumab on the baby.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.