INTRODUCTION: Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of unknown 
aetiology. Currently, approved therapies that include prednisone, 
anti-metabolites and TNF antagonists, are often ineffective and frequently cause 
adverse effects. As a result, patients with CD can develop serious complications 
that adversely affect quality of life. Consequently, new treatment options are 
needed.
AREAS COVERED: This review discusses the potential role of vedolizumab, a 
humanised monoclonal antibody that selectively blocks lymphocyte trafficking to 
the gut, for the treatment of CD. All randomised placebo-controlled trials that 
evaluated vedolizumab for the treatment of CD were reviewed and safety and 
efficacy data evaluated.
EXPERT OPINION: Vedolizumab is an effective and well-tolerated drug that is an 
important advance for the treatment of CD.