Abu Dhabi's Department Of Health Launches Tremfya® For IBD Patients, First Outside The United States

Abu Dhabi has taken a significant step in healthcare by introducing Tremfya, a biologic medication for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), outside the United States. This initiative was made possible through a collaboration between the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), Johnson & Johnson, and Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC). This partnership highlights Abu Dhabi's commitment to advancing patient care and healthcare innovation.

The introduction of Tremfya follows its approval by the U.S. FDA for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, as well as the European Commission's approval for Crohn’s disease. The DoH facilitated its local availability through this strategic partnership. SSMC's specialised IBD Centre will now administer Tremfya, offering a new standard of care for chronic IBD conditions under DoH supervision.

Tremfya is a biologic therapy targeting key inflammatory pathways in IBD. It offers patients a precise and effective treatment option designed to achieve clinical remission and reduce symptoms. It is the first fully human selective interleukin (IL)-23 inhibitor with dual inhibition targeting IL-23 and CD64, approved for adults with active ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Health Life Sciences Sector at DoH, stated: "This collaboration exemplifies Abu Dhabi's commitment to pioneering healthcare advancements that transform patient care. By being the first outside the United States to offer Tremfya for both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, we are reinforcing our dedication to strategic partnerships and innovative treatments that address chronic diseases. Abu Dhabi continues to position itself as a leader in health innovation by enhancing patient outcomes and bringing novel treatment solutions to the region."

The first patient in Abu Dhabi receiving Tremfya showed significant improvement despite having treatment-resistant Crohn's disease. Although its use for Crohn's is recent, clinical trials indicate it enhances patient outcomes and supports long-term treatment goals. The rapid adoption of this therapy underscores its potential benefits.

Dr. Mohammed Nabil Quraishi, Consultant Gastroenterologist at SSMC, remarked: "At SSMC, our goal is to be at the forefront of medical innovation, but the real success story is the immediate impact this has on our patients. Being the first in the country to administer this novel therapy was a vital first step, but to have already started treatment for 15 patients in under two months of its launch demonstrates the tangible, widespread benefit we can deliver."

Comprehensive Care Approach

The SSMC IBD Centre stands out with its multidisciplinary team of experts from various fields such as gastroenterology, surgery, nutrition, nursing, psychology, and pharmacy. This comprehensive approach ensures excellent clinical outcomes with most patients achieving rapid disease control.

The centre also provides access to cutting-edge treatments through research programmes and clinical trials while offering extensive patient education and support services like a dedicated helpline and mental wellness support.

Rising Incidence of IBD

IBD includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis causing symptoms such as abdominal pain and fatigue. Its incidence is increasing in the Middle East region. The age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) rose from 2.9 per 100,000 in 1990 to 3.7 per 100,000 by 2019—a 30% increase over three decades.

Pedro Matos Rosa from Johnson & Johnson stated: "We are honoured to collaborate with Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and SSMC to facilitate fast access to innovative solution for IBD patients in the Emirate. This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding innovative solutions that can make a meaningful difference in IBD patients’ lives."

This collaboration not only introduces advanced treatment options but also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s role as a leader in healthcare innovation within the region.

With inputs from WAM