Biological therapies in inflammatory bowel diseases
levels of evidence and methodological challenges
Keywords:
Biological Therapy; Crohn Disease; Evidence-Based Medicine; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases; Ulcerative ColitisAbstract
Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, cause recurrent inflammation and functional impairment. Biological therapies improved management, but methodological variations reduce the strength of evidence. Objective: To critically evaluate and discuss the level of evidence in scientific production on the use of biological therapies for IBD, addressing methodological quality. Methods: Observational, quantitative, descriptive, and analytical study. Articles from PubMed (2020–2025) were assessed with the GRADE methodology. Data were extracted by calibrated reviewers and analyzed with JAMOVI 2.5 software. Literature Review: A total of 140 articles were analyzed. Most showed high-level evidence, while 40% were low quality. Meta-analyses and observational studies predominated. Adverse events were reported in 70% of studies, more frequent in long-term designs. Conclusion: Biological therapies are effective for IBD, but require greater methodological rigor, standardized outcomes, and long-term monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
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