On October 3rd, 2023, Health Canada approved Eli Lilly’s newest biologic for the treatment of moderate to severe active ulcerative colitis (UC) called Omvoh. With a limited number of therapies available for UC in Canada, the introduction of a new advanced treatment is another step towards giving Canadians living with UC additional personalized treatment options.
Omvoh reduces excess signaling to the immune system and therefore prevents the production of inflammation in the gut lining. The actual signaling chemical it lowers is called interleukin-23 (IL-23). Another medication that works in a similar way is Skyrizi (risankizumab), however, it is only approved for Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. Stelara (ustekinumab) is another approved treatment option in UC and Crohn’s disease which lowers both signaling chemicals; IL-12 and IL-23.
The starting dose of Omvoh for UC is 300mg given as an infusion every 4 weeks for 3 doses. The infusions last roughly 30 minutes each. This is followed by 2 injections (=200mg) every 4 weeks. The injection is available as an autoinjector or pre-filled syringe.
Working with your gastroenterologist, Charlton Health is excited to provide our patients with this newly available treatment.
Parvinder Sahota is a clinical pharmacist and a recent graduate from the University of Toronto. He enjoys learning about the ever-evolving field of autoimmune conditions and their treatment options.