More than five million people worldwide are living with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). UC affects nearly 907,000 people in the U.S., with approximately 38,000 new cases diagnosed each year. UC is a chronic disease of the large intestine, also known as the colon, in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed and develops tiny open sores, or ulcers, that produce pus and mucus. It is the result of an abnormal response by the body’s immune system. Symptoms vary but may include loose and more urgent bowel movements, persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloody stool, loss of appetite, weight loss and fatigue.
Ulcerative colitis affects nearly 907,000 people in the U.S., with approximately 38,000 new cases diagnosed each year.”
J&J’s approach to ulcerative colitis
Driven by a relentless focus on patient unmet need, we will redefine treatments for immune diseases by delivering transformational and accessible medicines and regimens to patients with autoimmune disease.
For more than 30 years, we have focused on developing novel, effective therapies, with a relentless focus on individuals living with chronic conditions who are experiencing persistent and debilitating symptoms due to digestive diseases.
Having pioneered the science focused on blocking an overabundance of interleukin-23 or IL-23, a cytokine, or protein, embedded in the body, which in excess amounts can open the door for inflammation, especially of the skin, joints and gut, we continue to explore innovation within this pathway. This is evidenced by clinical findings that have resulted in the first and only IL-23 inhibitor to demonstrate robust results with a fully subcutaneous regimen. Looking forward, we are encouraged by promising results seen in Phase 2 studies of an investigational targeted oral peptide that selectively blocks the IL-23 receptor, as well as by a IL23/TNF combination therapy.
