Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Infliximab (Remicade) and vedolizumab (Entyvio) are both disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) used to treat autoimmune conditions like ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). However, they have some important differences. Infliximab works by blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to reduce inflammation. Vedolizumab, on the other hand, is an integrin antagonist that blocks proteins on immune cells to lower inflammation. Infliximab is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, while vedolizumab can be given either as an IV infusion or a subcutaneous injection. Infliximab is also used for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, whereas vedolizumab is specifically for UC and CD in adults. Common side effects of infliximab include infections and infusion-related reactions, while vedolizumab may cause headaches and joint pain. Both medications can increase the risk of serious infections, but infliximab also has a risk of causing cancer and heart problems.
Remicade (infliximab)
Entyvio (vedolizumab)
Remicade (infliximab)
Entyvio (vedolizumab)
Summary of Remicade vs. Entyvio
Summary for Biologic DMARD
Prescription only
Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.
Summary for Integrin antagonist
Prescription only
Entyvio, the brand name for vedolizumab, is an injection used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) in adults. It belongs to a drug class called integrin antagonists that helps lower inflammation in the gut. Entyvio (vedolizumab) is an infusion that's given through the vein by a healthcare professional. After the first 2 doses, it's usually given every 2 months. If it works well, people can switch to injections under the skin every 2 weeks using prefilled syringes or pens. Side effects include headache, mild infections, and joint pain.