Teduglutide: A novel recombinant analog of human glucagon-like peptide-2 for short bowel syndrome

Teduglutide is a recombinant analog of human glucagon-like peptide-2 that is awaiting FDA approval for the treatment of short bowel syndrome (SBS) as a once-daily subcutaneous injection. It has been shown to slow gastric emptying, reduce gastric secretions, increase intestinal blood flow, and stimulate growth of the small bowel and colon; teduglutide represents a major improvement in the treatment of SBS given that existing therapies are limited. Clinical trials have shown its efficacy in reducing the volume of parenteral support as either intravenous fluids (IVF) or parenteral nutrition (PN) and the number of days it is required weekly for SBS patients compared to placebo. Clinical trials have also shown it may allow SBS patients with their colon in continuity the option of stopping IVF or PN when used for up to 6 months. The long-term safety of teduglutide, however, requires further evaluation because of its potential to augment dysplastic transformation of intestinal tissue. (Formulary. 2012; 47:314-318.)