JAK inhibitors for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: results of an international survey of perceptions, attitudes, and clinical practice

Abstract

Background Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) are small molecule drugs with demonstrated efficacy in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, widespread utilisation may be hindered by safety concerns. Aims This is the first study assessing risk-benefit perceptions and clinical practices of those using JAKi for IBD. Methods A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted using a 23-item survey distributed to IBD healthcare providers worldwide. Results Of 385 respondents from 48 countries, 72% were tertiary-centre based and 50% were gastroenterologists with ≥10 years experience. JAKi were commonly used outside market authorisation (31%), though many (17%) were unconfident discussing JAKi risk-benefit profile and 7% had never prescribed JAKi. If venous thromboembolism risks were present, 15% preferentially referred for surgery than initiate JAKi; 21% would do this even if the patient was already anticoagulated. For patients relapsing on dose reduction, 8% would switch treatment rather than dose escalate. Conversely, 45% felt that cardiovascular safety concerns from post-marketing studies were irrelevant to IBD. Despite the lack of detailed, long-term safety data, safety profiles of JAK1-selective drugs were perceived to be favourable to tofacitinib by most (62%). Conclusion The study indicates that while clinical practice appears to be in keeping with international guidance, a significant minority remain deterred by safety concerns.