Stelara 2025 Price & Usage Guide: Side Effects, Dosage, and Treatment Insights

Stelara (ustekinumab) is a cutting-edge prescription biologic medication designed to manage various autoimmune disorders, including moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Administered either as a subcutaneous injection or an intravenous (IV) infusion, Stelara helps regulate immune responses by targeting specific proteins responsible for inflammation.

Approved for use in adults and certain pediatric patients, Stelara effectively treats:

• Plaque psoriasis in adults and children aged 6 and above
• Psoriatic arthritis in adults and children aged 6 and above
• Moderate to severe Crohn’s disease in adults
• Moderate to severe ulcerative colitis in adults

Explore the detailed uses and mechanisms of Stelara in the section below.

Understanding Stelara

Stelara contains ustekinumab, a biologic derived from living cells, that inhibits interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, key drivers of inflammation. A biosimilar named Selarsdi (ustekinumab-aekn) is also available, offering equivalent therapeutic benefits.

Potential Side Effects of Stelara

While Stelara is generally well-tolerated, it may cause side effects ranging from mild to serious. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management strategies.

Mild Side Effects

Common mild side effects include:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., common cold)
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Injection site reactions such as redness or itching
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Urinary tract infections

If mild side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor.

Serious Side Effects

Though rare, serious side effects may include:

• Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) causing brain swelling and severe headaches
• Increased risk of certain cancers, particularly skin cancer
• Severe allergic reactions
• Serious infections like pneumonia

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe side effects.

Special Focus: Common Cold and Headaches

Stelara can suppress immune function, raising susceptibility to colds. Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, and muscle aches. Preventive measures like frequent handwashing and avoiding sick contacts are recommended.

Headaches are a frequent complaint; however, if accompanied by seizures, vision changes, or confusion, they may indicate PRES, requiring urgent care.

Dosage and Administration

Your healthcare provider will tailor your Stelara dosage based on your condition and response. Available formulations include prefilled syringes (45 mg and 90 mg) for subcutaneous injection and single-dose vials (130 mg/26 mL) for IV infusion.

Typical Dosage Schedules

• Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: Initial IV infusion loading dose followed by subcutaneous injections every 8 weeks.
• Plaque Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis: Two initial subcutaneous doses spaced 4 weeks apart, then maintenance injections every 12 weeks.

Injection Sites

Rotate injection sites to reduce irritation, choosing from the outer upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch radius around the navel).

Combining Stelara with Other Treatments

Stelara may be prescribed alongside other medications such as methotrexate for psoriatic arthritis or immunosuppressants like azathioprine for Crohn’s disease. Always consult your doctor before combining therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Stelara differ from Humira?

Both are biologics treating similar autoimmune conditions, but Stelara blocks interleukin-12 and -23, while Humira targets tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Stelara offers both injection and IV infusion options, whereas Humira is injection-only. Side effect profiles and age indications also differ.

Does Stelara cause weight gain?

No direct link to weight gain exists. Weight changes may relate to underlying disease activity.

Are there withdrawal symptoms if I stop Stelara?

No withdrawal symptoms occur, but disease symptoms may return. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.

Precautions Before Starting Stelara

Discuss your full medical history, including infections, cancer history, pregnancy status, and current medications. Ensure vaccinations are up to date, avoiding live vaccines during treatment.

Drug Interactions

Stelara may interact with anticoagulants, immune suppressants, and allergy immunotherapy. Inform your healthcare provider about all substances you use.

Costs and Assistance Programs

Stelara’s cost varies based on insurance, dosage, and pharmacy. Programs like STELARA withMe can provide financial support. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

In Case of Overdose

Do not exceed prescribed doses. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical care or contact poison control.

Additional Resources and Support

For personalized advice, always consult your healthcare team. Proper management and monitoring ensure optimal outcomes with Stelara therapy.

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