Stelara®
Drug class
- Biologic/biosimilar
- IL 12-23 inhibitor
Generic name
Ustekinumab
Safety
Efficacy
Convenience
Indications
Approved for moderate to severe Crohn's disease. Approved for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.
How it works
Quickly lowers inflammation (swelling) and induces remission.
Drug interactions
Use caution with or avoid other immunosuppresive medications. Do not use live vaccines while you're using this medication.
Pre-treatment screening tests
Vaccines should be up to date before starting treatment, evaluate skin for malignancies, complete blood count with differential, complete metabolic panel, testing for tuberculosis infection, and serologic testing for hepatitis B virus.
Tests during screening
Complete blood count and liver function tests every 6-12 months or as clinically indicated. Yearly testing/chest radiograph for tuberculosis infection in high-risk patients.
Route of administration
Frequency
Every 8 weeks
Side effects
Fever, headache, sore throat, upper respiratory infections (flu or colds), itching, nausea, upset stomach, or throwing up, diarrhea (loose stools), stomach pain, and joint pain.
Contraindications
Clinically significant hypersensitivity to ustekinumab or any component of the formulation.
Safety information
Signs of a serious infection, new or painful skin rashes, sudden onset stomach pain, fever or chills, signs of an allergic reaction, like face swelling, fainting, dizziness, hives, shortness of breath.