Iranian Association of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Position Statement in Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease By using Biological Drugs: Expert View

Abstract

Although prescribing biological drugs have been common in Iran for nearly a decade and is now more widely available than ever, some physicians may still be unfamiliar with them. This guideline is the first joint statement of the Iranian Association of Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists (IAGH) regarding the proper use of biological drugs in IBD treatment. Many of the current guidelines are based on internationally published data due to a lack of national and regional information (individual and racial differences affecting patients' responses to biologics as well as characteristics). In this guide, we have tried to address various issues, including the indication for starting biological drugs, contraindications, prevention of complications, screening before starting biological treatment, and other follow-ups during treatment in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The authors of the article hope that based on these strategies, they will provide helpful information based on scientific evidence to physicians around the country to treat their patients with biological drugs successfully. As far as we know, this consensus on the starting and continuing of biologics is the first case to be compiled and published on the use of biological drugs in Iran, and it shows the importance of its application. However, the physicians’ decision about treating their patients is a priority. Naturally, it will be necessary to review the provisions of this agreement after the next 2-3 years.