Stelara (Ustekinumab)

Stelara, containing the active ingredient Ustekinumab, is a prescription biologic medication approved for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Stelara works by targeting interleukins IL-12 and IL-23, proteins involved in inflammation, to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Learn more about how Stelara works.

Key Information:

• Form: Subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion.
• Indications: Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
• Dosing: Initial dose by infusion (for Crohn's/UC) or injection, followed by maintenance injections every 8–12 weeks.
• Not recommended for individuals with active infections or hypersensitivity to Ustekinumab. See detailed precautions.

Where to Buy Stelara

Stelara is available at specialty pharmacies and online retailers. For reliable sources and additional information, consult your healthcare provider. Read about Stelara's treatment benefits.

How to Use Stelara

Stelara is administered as a subcutaneous injection every 8–12 weeks for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and maintenance after initial infusion for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. For Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, the initial dose is given as an intravenous infusion. Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation. For full usage guidelines, visit MedlinePlus.

Patient Guidelines

Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Stelara. Inform your provider about any infections or medical conditions before beginning treatment. Store Stelara in a refrigerator and protect it from light and heat.

Important Tips for Effective Usage:

• Maintain a regular schedule to ensure maximum effectiveness.
• Monitor for side effects like fever or persistent fatigue and inform your healthcare provider.
• Dispose of syringes safely after use, as per your healthcare provider's instructions.

Where to Store Stelara

Store Stelara in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Keep it in its original carton to protect it from light. Do not freeze, and avoid storing it at room temperature for extended periods.

Effectiveness and Reliability

Stelara has been clinically proven to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Clinical trials have shown significant improvements in skin clearance, joint pain, and digestive health with consistent use. Learn more about Stelara's benefits.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

• If a dose is missed, contact your healthcare provider for advice on rescheduling.
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling) are common and typically resolve on their own. Learn about managing side effects.
• Ensure proper storage to maintain the medication’s efficacy.

Side Effects and Precautions

Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, headache, and injection site reactions. Rare but serious side effects may include severe allergic reactions or an increased risk of infections. Inform your healthcare provider of any history of tuberculosis or immune system disorders before starting Stelara. For a complete list of side effects, visit RxList.

References

• WebMD - Stelara Overview
• Healthline - Stelara for Psoriasis
• RxList - Stelara Side Effects

Your physician will prescribe Stelara based on your condition. For Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, the starting dose is administered via intravenous infusion, followed by subcutaneous injections every 8–12 weeks. For psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, injections are given subcutaneously on the same schedule. Store Stelara in the refrigerator, and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely for optimal results.