Advances in Drug Treatment for Pediatric Gastroenterology

A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmacology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 January 2026) | Viewed by 1512

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
1. Department of Paediatrics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
2. “Grigore Alexandrescu” Emergency Hospital for Children, 011743 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: inflammatory bowel disease; clinical nutrition; biologics

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Guest Editor
1. Department of Paediatrics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
2. “Dr. Victor Gomoiu” Clinical Children Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
Interests: biologics; eosinophilic esophagitis; inflammatory bowel disease; clinical nutrition

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The field of pediatric gastroenterology is rapidly evolving, characterized by the introduction of novel biologic agents, enzyme replacement therapies, microbiome-targeted interventions, and the integration of precision medicine, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. This is complemented by substantial progress in diagnostic modalities, nutritional strategies, and the adoption of multidisciplinary individualized treatments.

Therefore, this Special Issue seeks to provide a comprehensive platform for the dissemination of innovative research, clinical experiences, and expert perspectives on the latest therapeutic approaches in pediatric gastroenterology.

We hope this Special Issue will be a reference source for clinicians and researchers, fostering the exchange of knowledge and best practices addressing the evolving challenges encountered in the treatment of pediatric gastrointestinal disorders.

We look forward to receiving your valuable contributions and showcasing the latest achievements in this evolving field.

Dr. Roxana Elena Matran
Dr. Iulia Florentina Ţincu
Dr. Corina Pienar
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • biologics
  • Crohn’s disease
  • ulcerative colitis
  • eosinophilic esophagitis
  • autoimmune hepatitis
  • probiotics
  • inflammatory bowel disease

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

27 pages, 741 KB  
Review
Advances in the Management of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: From Biologics to Small Molecules
by Benedetta Mucci, Elisabetta Palazzolo, Flaminia Ruberti, Lorenzo Ientile, Marco Natale and Susanna Esposito
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(1), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19010176 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 1056
Abstract
Background: The management of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) has evolved significantly over the past two decades, transitioning from corticosteroids and immunomodulators to biologic and small-molecule therapies. These advances have aimed not only to control inflammation but also to promote mucosal healing, improve [...] Read more.
Background: The management of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) has evolved significantly over the past two decades, transitioning from corticosteroids and immunomodulators to biologic and small-molecule therapies. These advances have aimed not only to control inflammation but also to promote mucosal healing, improve growth, and enhance long-term quality of life. Objectives: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the efficacy, safety, and clinical applications of biologic and novel small-molecule therapies in PIBD, highlighting emerging trends in personalized and precision-based management. Methods: A literature search was performed across PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on studies published within the last five years. Additional data were retrieved from key guidelines and position papers issued by ECCO–ESPGHAN, SIGENP, the FDA, and the EMA. Results: Anti–tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents such as infliximab and adalimumab remain first-line biologics with proven efficacy in remission induction and maintenance. Newer biologics—vedolizumab, ustekinumab, risankizumab, and mirikizumab—offer alternatives for anti-TNF-refractory cases, showing encouraging short-term results and favorable safety profiles. Although many are approved only for adults with limited pediatric evidence, emerging small molecules—including Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors (tofacitinib, upadacitinib) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) modulators (etrasimod)—provide oral, rapidly acting, and non-immunogenic treatment options for refractory disease. Furthermore, the gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as an emerging therapeutic target in PIBD, with growing evidence that host–microbiome interactions can influence both the efficacy and safety of biologics and small-molecule therapies. Conclusions: While biologics and small molecules have transformed PIBD management, challenges remain, including high treatment costs, limited pediatric trial data, and variable access worldwide. Future directions include multicenter pediatric studies, integration of pharmacogenomics, and biomarker-guided precision medicine to optimize early, individualized treatment and improve long-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Drug Treatment for Pediatric Gastroenterology)
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