Filgotinib is a Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor, that was reported in The Lancet to show positive results in patients with Crohn’s disease. Filgotinib is a “small molecule drug” that is taken by mouth & unlike the existing treatments for Crohn’s disease (biological agents such as infliximab & adalimumab) does not directly affect TNF but inhibits the activity of JAK1 & thereby reduces the inflammation causing Crohn’s disease.

 In the study, 175 patients with moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease were randomised to receive 200 mg filgotinib or placebo (a similar looking but inactive tablet). Filgotinib induced clinical remission in 48% of the patients, compared with 23% of the patients given placebo. In addition, more patients given filgotinib had an improvement in their quality of life (34%) than those given placebo (18%).

 While there is still much work ahead, this Phase 2 study highlights filgotinib’s potential as an oral treatment for the treatment of Crohn’s disease.

 For more information about this treatment option or Crohn’s disease, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Harris.