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Biologics have revolutionized the therapeutic approach in infl ammatory bowel disease (IBD). Anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) agents infl iximab and adalimumab currently constitute the major biological therapy in IBD. Additional anti-TNFs such as golimumab and other new biologics are currently being developed for both anti-TNF-naive and -resistant patients. these include anti-integrins (vedolizumab and etrolizumab), a JAK inhibitor (tofacitinib) and an anti-anti-interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-12 antibody (ustekinumab), among additional drugs in development. the following review discusses the indications, effi cacy and safety issues for these novel medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors and thiopurines are among the most important classes of medications utilized in the clinical management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. A significant proportion of patients loses response to these agents or develops adverse effects during the course of the treatment. Monitoring of drug levels and anti-drug antibodies (for TNF-α inhibitors) and metabolite levels (for thiopurines) can provide valuable insight into the possible etiology of unfavorable outcomes and allow for an appropriate management strategy for these patients. Th is review summarizes the current knowledge on the clinical implications of therapeutic drug monitoring in inflammatory bowel disease patients treated with TNF-α inhibitors and thiopurines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]