New Drug Shows Promise Against Celiac Disease
New Drug Shows Promise Against Celiac Disease
by Claire Allen, RD
A new drug being investigated to treat celiac disease shows promising preliminary results in a proof-of-concept study highlighted in the New England Journal of Medicine. ZED1227 is an experimental celiac disease drug designed to block transglutaminase 2 (tTG), an enzyme that reacts with fragments of gluten, causing intestinal damage. This is the first non-dietary treatment that has shown promise in the ability to prevent mucosal damage for individuals with celiac disease.
Based on the results of this proof-of-concept study, researchers plan to launch a larger study in a real-world setting. Currently, following a strict gluten free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease. Study authors pointed to inadequacy of the gluten-free diet, noting that “only 50 percent of patients have mucosal recovery” and often do not have negative results in blood test for celiac disease even one year after diagnosis. “Moreover, many patients with celiac disease report having symptoms despite adherence to the gluten-free diet,” they wrote. “There is an unmet medical need for an effective treatment adjunct to a strict gluten-free diet.”
While these results are promising, following a gluten free diet is still the treatment protocol for a celiac diagnosis. If you or one of your loved ones are struggling with adhering to a gluten free diet to treat celiac disease, one of our dietitians specializing in GI disease and disorders will be able to help. Schedule an appointment today at 224-407-4400 or at www.compgihealth.com #celiacdisease #glutenfreediet