Opportunity for emerging agents in Crohn's disease, report finds

New research from Decision Resources Group has found that only a small proportion of patients with Crohn's disease/ulcerative colitis (CD/UC) eligible for biologic therapy currently receive a biologic.

Gastroenterologists surveyed by the group cite patients' discomfort with biological therapy as the main reason for low penetration rates, followed by cost-related issues and payer restrictions. The US Physician and Payer Forum report found that among CD and UC patients receiving biologics, Janssen Biotech's Remicade (infliximab) and AbbVie's (NYSE: ABBV) blockbuster drug Humira (adalimumab) are the preferred first- and second-line agents by gastroenterologists. Both of these are covered by most plans on a preferred tier, a significant hurdle for other branded and emerging therapies, the report found.

Opportunity for emerging agents