Stelara vs. Humira 2025: Pricing, Uses, and Which Biologic Is Best for You

Stelara (ustekinumab) and Humira (adalimumab) are advanced prescription biologic medications designed to treat various autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Both drugs are administered via injections and work by targeting specific components of the immune system to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

This comprehensive guide delves into the similarities and distinctions between Stelara and Humira, helping you understand which medication might be the right fit for your condition. For detailed insights on each drug, consult their individual profiles.

Active Ingredients and Drug Classes

Both Stelara and Humira are monoclonal antibodies, a type of biologic drug derived from living organisms that mimic natural immune proteins.

• Stelara: Contains ustekinumab, which blocks interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, key drivers of inflammation.
• Humira: Contains adalimumab, a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker that inhibits a different inflammatory pathway.

Both medications fall under the broader category of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which modulate the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage.

Approved Uses in Adults and Children

Stelara and Humira are prescribed for several active autoimmune conditions characterized by inflammation and symptoms:

• Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Moderate to severe Crohn’s disease
• Moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC)

Humira also treats additional conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and certain uveitis types.

Use in Pediatric Patients

• Stelara: Approved for children aged 6 and above with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
• Humira: Approved for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (ages 2+), Crohn’s disease (ages 6+), ulcerative colitis (ages 5+), hidradenitis suppurativa (ages 12+), and certain uveitis types (ages 2+).

Cost Considerations in 2024

Costs for Stelara and Humira vary widely based on insurance coverage, dosage, pharmacy, and healthcare provider fees. Both drugs are high-cost biologics, but biosimilar alternatives can offer more affordable options.

Biosimilars: Stelara’s biosimilar is Wezlana, while Humira has multiple biosimilars including Hadlima, Amjevita, and Cyltezo. These offer comparable safety and efficacy at reduced prices.

Mechanism of Action: How They Work Differently

• Stelara: Blocks interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 to disrupt inflammatory signaling.
• Humira: Blocks tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a protein that promotes inflammation.

Side Effects and Safety Profiles

Both medications can cause mild side effects such as injection site reactions, headaches, upper respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Serious side effects are rare but may include infections, certain cancers, and allergic reactions.

Humira carries FDA boxed warnings for serious infections and malignancies, while Stelara does not have boxed warnings but still requires monitoring.

Dosage and Administration

Both drugs are administered via subcutaneous injections, with options for prefilled syringes or pens. Stelara dosing intervals range from every 8 to 12 weeks depending on the condition, while Humira is typically injected weekly or biweekly.

For Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, Stelara’s initial dose is given intravenously as a loading dose, followed by subcutaneous injections.

Effectiveness and Treatment Guidelines

Clinical studies show Stelara and Humira have comparable effectiveness for treating plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Treatment guidelines recommend both for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, with choice influenced by individual patient factors.

Switching Between Stelara and Humira

Switching between these biologics is possible and may be advised if one medication is ineffective or causes intolerable side effects. Decisions depend on medical history, condition severity, side effect profiles, and cost considerations.

Important Questions to Discuss with Your Doctor

• Which medication best suits my condition and overall health?
• What are the potential interactions with my current medications?
• How quickly can I expect symptom improvement?
• What are the risks of long-term use?
• Are biosimilars a suitable option for me?

Latex Allergy Considerations

Latex-free formulations of both Stelara and Humira are available. Discuss with your healthcare provider to ensure safe administration.

Summary

Stelara and Humira are powerful biologic treatments offering relief for various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Understanding their differences in mechanism, dosing, side effects, and costs can help you and your healthcare provider select the most appropriate therapy tailored to your needs.

Always consult your doctor before starting, switching, or stopping any medication.

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