For avid football enthusiasts, the unpredictable experience of ulcerative colitis (UC) might feel all too familiar. Just as a football team’s performance can fluctuate from week to week, the symptoms of UC can shift from day to day, presenting unexpected hurdles. One moment, everything seems fine, and the next, discomfort and uncertainty take over.
Dr. Zuri Murrell, a colorectal surgeon based in Los Angeles, draws intriguing comparisons between managing UC and his football experiences, both as a player and a passionate fan.
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
“I WAS A FOOTBALL PLAYER in junior high, and I quickly learned the importance of preparation before stepping onto the field,” Dr. Murrell explains. “The same principle applies to UC. Understanding what you’re dealing with can significantly ease the management of your condition.”
Symptoms of UC can vary widely, from urgent bathroom needs to the presence of blood in the stool, often interspersed with periods of remission. While a definitive cure for UC has yet to be discovered, effective management strategies, including medication or surgery, are available.
In contrast to other gastrointestinal disorders, UC specifically impacts the colon and rectum, affecting around 1.25 million individuals in the United States. If not properly managed, UC can lead to serious complications, including ulcers and an elevated risk of colon cancer.
Dr. Murrell underscores that despite UC being a chronic condition, recent advancements in treatment options, including medications like VELSIPITY® (etrasimod), have made it increasingly manageable for patients.
For complete Prescribing Information, including the Medication Guide, visit velsipityPI.com. VELSIPITY is a prescription medication indicated for the management of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults. Patients with specific cardiac conditions, such as a history of heart attack, stroke, or certain arrhythmias, should avoid VELSIPITY. Serious side effects may include infections (some of which can be life-threatening) and bradyarrhythmia, a condition characterized by a slow heart rate.
To discover more about these and other serious side effects, please refer to the Important Safety Information below.
Strategizing for Effective UC Management
IN ADDITION TO COLLABORATING with your healthcare provider to identify a suitable treatment, Dr. Murrell offers three key strategies for achieving effective management of UC.
1. Trust Your Support System
Creating a strong support network is essential for managing UC, much like a football team thrives on mutual trust and cooperation. Open and honest communication with healthcare professionals is vital for discovering effective treatment options.
Resilience plays a crucial role in navigating setbacks, whether on the football field or while managing UC. Just as in sports, setbacks don’t have to dictate the final score. Keeping a detailed record of symptoms and being flexible in adjusting treatment approaches can lead to improved management.
2. Cultivate Resilience
Being resilient is vital in UC management, just as it is in football where challenges are frequent. Maintaining a positive mindset, relying on your support system, and committing to effective treatments are all essential components.
3. Monitor Your Symptoms and Be Ready to Adapt
Keeping a close eye on your symptoms and being willing to modify treatment plans is crucial for effective UC management. Documenting your symptoms can provide a sense of control and assist healthcare providers in tailoring treatments to your individual needs.
By implementing these strategies and collaborating closely with healthcare providers, individuals dealing with moderate to severe UC can enhance their symptoms and overall quality of life.
Key Safety Information and Indication
Do not take VELSIPITY if you:
- have experienced a heart attack, unstable angina, stroke, or mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack or TIA), or certain types of heart failure requiring hospitalization in the past six months
- have or have had a history of uncorrected unusual heartbeats (arrhythmia) that is not managed by a pacemaker
Consult your healthcare provider prior to taking VELSIPITY if you have any of these conditions or are unsure of your health status.
VELSIPITY may lead to serious side effects, including:
- Infections: VELSIPITY can elevate your risk of severe infections, some of which can be life-threatening. This medication reduces the number of white blood cells (lymphocytes) in your blood, typically returning to normal within 4 to 5 weeks post-treatment. Your healthcare provider will conduct blood tests before you begin VELSIPITY. If you exhibit signs of infection during treatment, such as fever, pain during urination, or flu-like symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Bradyarrhythmia: VELSIPITY may temporarily slow your heart rate, particularly after your initial dose. An electrocardiogram (ECG) will be performed to assess the electrical activity of your heart before your first dose. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of a slow heart rate, such as dizziness, confusion, or chest pain.
Prior to taking VELSIPITY, inform your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:
- have a serious or chronic infection.
- are immunocompromised.
- have received a vaccine in the past month or plan to receive one soon. Ensure that you are up to date with all necessary vaccinations before starting VELSIPITY.
- have a history of liver issues.
- are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as this medication may harm your unborn child. Discuss effective birth control options and pregnancy registry enrollment with your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while on VELSIPITY.
- are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Discuss with your healthcare provider the best approach for feeding your baby while taking VELSIPITY.
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Combining VELSIPITY with certain medications may lead to serious side effects. Particularly notify your healthcare provider if you are taking:
- medications for heart rhythm or blood pressure control.
- immune system-affecting drugs.
- strong inhibitors of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, such as fluconazole or rifampin, which should not be taken in conjunction with VELSIPITY.
Avoid receiving live vaccines at least four weeks before starting VELSIPITY, during treatment, and for five weeks after stopping the medication. Consult your healthcare provider about vaccinations during and after VELSIPITY treatment.
Did you know that vaccination effectiveness may be compromised during VELSIPITY treatment? This medication carries potential serious side effects that you should be aware of:
– Liver issues: Regular liver function monitoring is essential during VELSIPITY treatment. Report any unusual symptoms like nausea or jaundice to your healthcare provider immediately.
– Blood pressure monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure to ensure it remains within a healthy range during treatment.
– Vision changes: As VELSIPITY may cause macular edema, monitor your vision closely and report any changes to your healthcare provider.
– Skin cancer risk: Protect your skin from sunlight and report any skin changes to your healthcare provider.
– Brain-related symptoms: Seek medical attention if you experience severe headaches or confusion during treatment.
– Respiratory issues: Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening breathing difficulties.
Common side effects of VELSIPITY include headaches, increased liver enzyme levels, and dizziness. If you have concerns or experience side effects, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. It’s crucial to report any side effects to the FDA or Pfizer.
VELSIPITY is prescribed for adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis but is not indicated for children. Stay informed and prioritize your health while undergoing treatment with VELSIPITY.
