Cure8 research brief
Children with IBD and their caregivers may be interested in subcutaneous infliximab as an alternative to regular IV infusions because this review suggests it can maintain drug levels and remission after switching, with low rates of new antibodies and serious adverse events in the short term.
However, the evidence is from small observational cohorts and does not prove starting subcutaneous infliximab de novo induces remission.
Pediatric patients with IBD and their parents/caregivers; pediatric and adult clinicians who manage biologic therapy; researchers studying pediatric biologic dosing or administration routes.
This review summarizes small observational pediatric cohorts rather than randomized trials. Findings suggest subcutaneous infliximab can sustain drug levels and remission after a planned switch from IV infliximab in children, with few new antibodies and an acceptable short-term safety profile.
However, longer follow-up and prospective studies are needed, especially to assess starting subcutaneous infliximab as initial therapy rather than after switch.
Practical note: If families or clinicians are considering subcutaneous infliximab for a child currently stable on IV infliximab, these pooled observational data are reassuring about short-term persistence, concentrations, and safety—but the evidence quality is limited and off-label pediatric use remains distinct from adult licensing.
The review pooled small, mostly single-center observational cohorts with short follow-up; certainty of evidence was rated low to very low. Nearly all children switched from IV infliximab while already in remission, so results mainly apply to maintenance after switch, not de novo induction. Registered protocol on PROSPERO is reported.
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
Conflict statement: Declarations. Ethics approval and consent to participate: This review synthesized previously published, aggregate data and did not involve new research on human participants; institutional ethics approval was therefore not required. Consent for publication: Not applicable; no individual participant data were used. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This registry will track long-term safety and clinical outcomes in children with IBD, with a focus on infliximab (an anti‑TNF biologic) versus non‑biologic therapies. Long follow-up could help identify uncommon or late...
Switching biologics is a frequent and consequential decision in children with IBD; using TDM and a mechanism‑based approach can help choose whether to optimize, switch within class, or change drug class.
Subcutaneous infliximab may let children on infliximab avoid regular IV infusions while keeping drug levels high and maintaining remission. Results are relevant to families and clinicians considering switching pediatric...
