Stelara (ustekinumab) is a prescription biologic medicine that affects the immune system and is used to treat several conditions. Here are the conditions for which Stelara is used:
-
Crohns Disease: Stelara is used to treat adults with moderately to severely active Crohns disease. It is the only FDA-approved medicine that targets IL-12 and IL-23, which are thought to be associated with gastrointestinal inflammation in Crohns disease.
-
Ulcerative Colitis: Stelara is used to treat adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. After the one-time IV infusion, patients receive Stelara as an injection under the skin every 8 weeks.
-
Plaque Psoriasis: Stelara is used to treat plaque psoriasis. It reduces the signs and symptoms of active psoriatic arthritis, such as psoriasis and joint swelling.
-
Psoriatic Arthritis: Stelara is used to treat psoriatic arthritis.
Stelara is not a cure for any of these conditions, but it can help manage symptoms. Stelara is administered as an IV infusion and/or subcutaneous injection. It is important to note that Stelara can increase the chance of having serious side effects, including serious infections. Only a doctor can decide if Stelara is right for a patient.
