Like all drugs, vedolizumab can have side effects, although not everyone experiences these. Some side effects can happen almost immediately, in direct response to the infusion. Others may not appear for several days, weeks or even longer. It can take up to 6 months after the last dose for vedolizumab to be completely eliminated from the body, so some effects might appear during this time.
Some side effects are mild and will go away on their own, or following a slight change to the infusion programme. Others may be more serious and will require treatment.
Side effects of vedolizumab may include the following:
As mentioned above, your doctor should talk through the risks and benefits before you start on vedolizumab. Let your doctor or IBD nurse know about any new symptoms you develop while on vedolizumab, whenever they occur. Your IBD team should also be able to help with any queries and concerns.