Journal of Crohn's & colitis
Cure8 research brief
Why This Matters
This study gives real-world 52‑week data on upadacitinib maintenance in children with refractory Crohn's disease, showing meaningful remission rates but also notable adverse events. That balance is important for families and clinicians considering JAK inhibitor therapy after multiple biologic failures.
Who Should Pay Attention
Pediatric Crohn's disease patients (especially those who failed multiple biologics), parents and caregivers, pediatric gastroenterologists, and clinicians considering or monitoring upadacitinib.
Study Snapshot
Story typeResearch paper
Evidence typeResearch paper
Source depthJournal abstract
What To Know
This study pooled data from 120 children (mean age ~15 years) treated across 35 pediatric IBD centers. Nearly all had prior biologic exposure and most had failed vedolizumab and ustekinumab before starting upadacitinib.
After induction, about 60–64% achieved clinical remission and corticosteroid‑free remission; at 52 weeks roughly 62% remained in clinical remission and 55–66% sustained corticosteroid‑free remission depending on the measure.
Objective inflammation markers (CRP and fecal calprotectin) normalized in fewer patients (CRP normal in ~50%, fecal calprotectin <150 µg/g in ~33%). Adverse events were common (44%), mostly acne, hyperlipidemia, and infections; two serious events were reported including intestinal perforation.
Keep In Mind
Retrospective design and abstract-level reporting limit causal conclusions. The cohort was highly biologic‑exposed and refractory, which may affect both effectiveness and safety outcomes. The report summarizes 52‑week follow-up; longer-term effects and comparisons with other therapies require further study.
Source Details
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
Research paper
Evidence type derived from source or registry metadata.
PublicationJournal of Crohn's & colitis
AuthorsSpencer EA, Cohen S, Dubinsky MC +37 more
Study typeIm, multicenter study, journal article
Indexed viaEurope PMC
Source typeResearch paper
PublishedSep 1, 2026, 12:00 AM
Content availableJournal abstract
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.
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