Understanding Ustekinumab: An Informative Guide

Names of Medication

Brand Name: Stelara (Ustekinumab)

Pharmacologic Category

Ustekinumab belongs to the category of drugs known as Interleukin inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Secukinumab (Cosentyx) and Ixekizumab (Taltz).

Dosing

Always remember, do not adjust your medication dose without consulting your doctor first.

Plaque Psoriasis

For Plaque Psoriasis, Ustekinumab is typically administered initially as 45 mg or 90 mg, depending on body weight, followed by the same dose 4 weeks later, and then every 12 weeks.

Psoriatic Arthritis

In Psoriatic Arthritis, 45 mg of Ustekinumab is given initially, followed by the same dose 4 weeks later, and then every 12 weeks. If needed, the dose can be increased to 90 mg.

Crohn’s Disease

In treating Crohn’s Disease, a one-time intravenous dose is given first, followed by 90 mg subcutaneously at week 8 and every 8 weeks afterward.

Ulcerative Colitis

For Ulcerative Colitis, an initial intravenous dose is administered based on weight, followed by 90 mg subcutaneously at week 8, and then every 12 weeks afterward.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Ustekinumab is available as a prefilled syringe or vial for subcutaneous injection in two strengths: 45 mg/0.5 mL and 90 mg/mL.

Administration Instructions

Ustekinumab is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection by a healthcare provider. If you are instructed to self-administer Ustekinumab, ensure you understand and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like any medication, Ustekinumab can cause side effects. Below are some of the most common side effects:

Fatigue (Common)

Fatigue is a common side effect of Ustekinumab, which may be due to the body’s immune response to the medication. It’s important to report persistent or severe fatigue to your healthcare provider.

Headache (Common)

Headache is a common side effect of many medications, including Ustekinumab. This can occur as the body adjusts to the new medication.

Upper respiratory infection (Common)

As Ustekinumab can affect the immune system, it may increase the risk of certain infections, including upper respiratory infections.

Injection site reactions (Less common)

Injection site reactions, including redness, pain, or swelling, may occur. These are typically mild and go away on their own.

Serious infections (Rare)

Ustekinumab may increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms of serious infection, such as fever, cough, or weight loss.

Contraindications to taking Ustekinumab

A contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient.

Active infection

Active infections are a contraindication as Ustekinumab can weaken the immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infections. If you have an active infection, your doctor will likely delay starting Ustekinumab until the infection is fully treated.

Tuberculosis

Patients with active tuberculosis should not take Ustekinumab, as it could worsen the condition. Prior to starting Ustekinumab, your doctor may test you for tuberculosis.

Hypersensitivity to Ustekinumab

If you’ve previously had an allergic reaction to Ustekinumab or any of its components, it is contraindicated to take Ustekinumab. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Ustekinumab may interact with certain other medications, including:
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Theochron)
Phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek)
Live vaccines
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you’re taking.

Ustekinumab in Pregnancy

It’s not fully known whether Ustekinumab is safe to take during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while on Ustekinumab.

Ustekinumab while Breastfeeding

It’s not known whether Ustekinumab passes into breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you are taking Ustekinumab.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Ustekinumab can vary depending on the specific dosage, but as of this writing, it may range from $5,000 to $6,000 using a GoodRx coupon. These prices are only estimates and actual costs may vary depending on the pharmacy, location, and negotiated agreements between pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.