Entyvio Overview

Key takeaways

• Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a prescription medication used to manage Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It works by preventing certain inflammatory cells from entering the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
• Entyvio is available as a prefilled syringe, a prefilled pen, and a single-dose vial for IV infusion. The Entyvio Pen and prefilled syringe are administered as subcutaneous injections (injections under the skin).
• Common Entyvio side effects include headache, nausea, joint pain, and fatigue. If side effects persist or become severe, your doctor can recommend appropriate management strategies.

Entyvio is prescribed for adults with the following forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD):

• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis

If you’re researching Entyvio side effects brain concerns—such as confusion, neurological changes, or rare brain infections—this article explains what is known and what to monitor during treatment.

For a broader overview of the medication’s safety profile, including Vedolizumab side effects, continue reading below.

Entyvio basics

Entyvio contains the active ingredient vedolizumab. It belongs to a class of medications called integrin receptor antagonists.

Entyvio is a biologic drug. Biologics are developed from components of living organisms. Entyvio is available only as a brand-name medication and does not currently have a biosimilar version.

Biosimilars are comparable to generic drugs, but while generics are made for nonbiologic medications, biosimilars are developed for biologic drugs.

What are Entyvio’s side effects?

Like many medications, Entyvio can cause both mild and serious side effects. The lists below highlight some of the more commonly reported reactions, but they don’t include every possible side effect.

Side effects—including concerns about Entyvio side effects brain—may vary based on:

• the form of Entyvio you’re using
• your age
• other medical conditions you have
• how your immune system functions
• other medications you’re taking

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide detailed guidance about potential side effects and how to reduce your risk.

Mild side effects

Below is a list of some mild side effects associated with Entyvio. For additional details, speak with your healthcare provider or review Entyvio’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects reported with Entyvio include:

• headache
• runny nose
• nausea
• fatigue (low energy)
• fever
• upper respiratory infection, such as a cold
• bronchitis
• back pain
• cough
• influenza (flu)
• skin reactions, such as rash or itching
• injection site reaction, such as swelling or bruising (with subcutaneous injections)
• joint pain*

Mild side effects often resolve within several days to a few weeks. If they become troublesome or persistent, contact your doctor.

* For more information about this side effect, see the “Side effect focus” section below.

Serious side effects

Although uncommon, serious side effects can occur with Entyvio. If you experience severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you believe you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported include:

• infusion reaction or injection site reaction (a type of allergic response following an infusion or injection)
• liver problems, including liver damage
• serious infections, including: tuberculosis giardiasis (infection of the small intestine) cytomegaloviral colitis (colon inflammation due to cytomegalovirus) listeria meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord caused by listeria)
• sepsis (a life threatening response to infection)
• immunogenicity (an immune response to Entyvio that may cause side effects or reduced effectiveness)
• progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious viral brain infection*
• allergic reaction*

The mention of PML is particularly relevant when discussing Entyvio side effects brain, as this condition affects the central nervous system. While rare, PML is a serious infection that requires immediate medical evaluation.

* For more information about this side effect, see the “Side effect focus” section below.

For additional insight into potential long-term risks, including neurological concerns, you can review information about Entyvio long-term side effects.

Allergic reaction

Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Entyvio. Symptoms may be mild or severe and can occur after any dose.

If you develop mild symptoms, such as a mild rash, contact your doctor promptly. They may recommend treatment and advise whether you should continue the medication.

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction—such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or throat tightness—require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number, or notify your healthcare provider immediately if you’re receiving an infusion.

If a serious allergic reaction is confirmed, your doctor may recommend switching to a different therapy.

What does Entyvio cost?

The price of prescription medications varies based on several factors, including insurance coverage and the pharmacy you use.

If you have questions about affordability, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. You may also visit the Entyvio manufacturer’s website for information about financial assistance programs.

What are some frequently asked questions about Entyvio?

What is Entyvio’s mechanism of action? Is it an immunosuppressant?

Entyvio is classified as an integrin receptor antagonist. It works by blocking integrin, a protein that helps white blood cells enter the digestive tract and contribute to inflammation.

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often have an overactive immune response in the gut. By limiting the movement of inflammatory cells into the GI tract, Entyvio helps reduce inflammation.

Although Entyvio is an immunotherapy medication, it is not considered a systemic immunosuppressant. Its effects are largely gut-selective, meaning it does not broadly suppress the entire immune system.

Does Entyvio cause brain-related side effects?

Most people do not experience neurological complications. However, rare cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have raised concerns about Entyvio side effects brain involvement. Symptoms of PML may include weakness on one side of the body, vision problems, confusion, or changes in thinking and coordination.

If you notice new or worsening neurological symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early evaluation is critical.

Does Entyvio cause weight gain?

Weight gain has not been reported as a direct side effect.

However, some individuals may gain weight as inflammation improves and appetite returns. If you’re concerned about weight changes, your doctor can help you develop a healthy management plan.

Will I experience hair loss with Entyvio?

Hair loss was not reported in studies of Entyvio. If hair thinning occurs, it may be related to other medications, stress, nutritional deficiencies, or immune system changes.

How long do Entyvio’s side effects last? Does it cause long-term side effects?

The duration of side effects varies depending on your overall health, age, and other medications.

A long-term study found Entyvio to be generally safe for extended use. While serious side effects were reported in some cases, no unexpected new safety concerns emerged over time.

If you develop serious or persistent symptoms—including neurological changes—contact your doctor promptly to determine whether treatment adjustments are needed.

Ask a pharmacist

Q:

Can I take a multivitamin supplement with Entyvio?

A:

In most cases, taking a multivitamin with Entyvio is considered safe.

However, you should confirm with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any supplement, over-the-counter product, or new medication. They can evaluate potential interactions and ensure it’s appropriate for your treatment plan.

Disclaimer: HealthEH has made every effort to ensure that all information is accurate, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not include all uses, precautions, warnings, or interactions. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a drug or combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for every individual.