Stelara (Ustekinumab)
Provider Summary
Primary Uses
Plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis per label and payer criteria.
Mechanism of action
Monoclonal antibody targeting IL‑12/23 p40 subunit.
Pre-treatment / baseline requirement
Screen for active infection; TB screening (IGRA/PPD) and hepatitis B screening are commonly required for many biologics; baseline CBC and CMP/LFTs are often requested; review vaccination status (avoid live vaccines during therapy per PI); confirm pregnancy status when clinically appropriate; review prior biologic exposure and infection history.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, headache, fatigue, injection-site reactions.
Serious adverse effects / key risks
Serious infections; hypersensitivity; reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (rare).
Referral requirements
Standard infusion referral form + drug-specific checklist
Patient & Caregiver Education
What it treats
Plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
How it works
Monoclonal antibody targeting IL‑12/23 p40 subunit.
Before treatment
Tell your clinician if you have an active infection/fever, are pregnant/planning pregnancy, or have major heart/nerve problems. Depending on the medication, you may need labs or screening tests (e.g., TB/hepatitis) and a vaccine review.
Common side effects
Upper respiratory infection, headache, fatigue, injection-site reactions.
Get urgent help for
Serious infections; hypersensitivity; reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome.
On treatment day
Plan to stay for monitoring. If you feel dizzy, drowsy, or unwell afterward, do not drive and follow your clinician’s instructions.