Reaching the therapeutic ceiling in IBD: Can Advanced Combination Treatment (ACT) offer a solution?

Abstract

The term Advanced Combination Treatment (ACT) involves the combination of at least two biologics or the use of a biologic with a small molecule drug, each with different mechanisms of action. This narrative review evaluates the current evidence supporting ACT in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), focusing on preclinical studies, real-world evidence, and randomized controlled trials. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials has concluded that ACT significantly improves clinical outcomes, without significant safety concerns in patient with IBD. However, variability in trial designs and the lack of standardized outcome measures have led to initiatives aimed at mitigating these issues through a clear expert consensus. While the evidence for ACT in IBD is compelling, substantial challenges remain in standardizing treatment protocols and ensuring long-term safety. In the meantime, the use of ACT in clinical practice remains off-label and requires careful consideration of patient-specific factors. Future clinical trials should consider robust biomarkers for patient selection and leverage mechanistic insights to select combination components.