Stelara is a brand name for the medication ustekinumab. It is a prescription biologic drug used to treat autoimmune conditions. Stelara is specifically classified as an interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 antagonist. This medication is designed to target and block the action of certain proteins involved in the inflammatory response.

Stelara is approved for the treatment of several autoimmune conditions, including:

1. Plaque Psoriasis: Stelara is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.
2. Psoriatic Arthritis: It is approved for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis in adults.
3. Crohn's Disease: Stelara is indicated for the treatment of moderately to severely active Crohn's disease in adults.
4. Ulcerative Colitis: In some regions, Stelara is also approved for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults.

Stelara is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection, and the dosing frequency and regimen may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It's essential to use Stelara under the guidance and prescription of a healthcare provider. As with any medication, it's important to discuss potential side effects, benefits, and risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Stelara.

Stelara is administered through subcutaneous injection. Ensure adherence to the following steps for a proper administration process:

1. Gather Supplies:
   • Stelara prefilled syringe or injection pen
   • Alcohol swabs
   • Sharps disposal container
   • Clean, well-lit workspace
2. Check Expiration Date: Prioritize confirming that the Stelara prefilled syringe or injection pen is within its validity period.
3. Allow Medication to Reach Room Temperature: Post removal from the refrigerator, let it stabilize at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
4. Wash Your Hands: Rigorously wash hands with soap and water.
5. Select an Injection Site: Opt for common injection sites such as the front of thighs or lower abdomen.
6. Clean the Injection Site: Utilize an alcohol swab to thoroughly clean the chosen site.
7. Prepare Stelara Injection Pen or Prefilled Syringe: Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific device.
8. Inject the Medication:
9. Grasp the pen or syringe akin to a pencil and administer at a 90-degree angle.
10. Gradually depress the plunger until the designated dose is delivered.
11. Maintain the device in place for a few seconds.
12. Dispose of Sharps Safely: Employ a sharps disposal container for the secure disposal of used needle and syringe or pen.
13. Record the Injection: Maintain a detailed record encompassing the date, time, and location of the injection.
14. Store or Discard Unused Medication: Observe the manufacturer's instructions concerning refrigeration.

If you forget to take your prescribed dose of Stelara (Ustekinumab), follow these general guidelines to ensure you receive the missed dose as soon as possible:

1. As Soon as You Remember: If you realize that you missed a dose of Stelara, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
2. Contact Your Healthcare Provider: It's a good practice to inform your healthcare provider about the missed dose, especially if you frequently miss doses. They can provide guidance on what to do next and whether any adjustments are needed in your treatment plan.
3. Adjust Your Schedule: Depending on when you remember the missed dose, you may need to adjust your dosing schedule to maintain the recommended interval between doses. Your healthcare provider can advise you on how to adjust the timing of your subsequent doses.

Consistency with your dosing schedule is important when taking Stelara to effectively manage autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. If you have concerns or questions about missing a dose, it's best to discuss them with your healthcare provider, as they can provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific situation and medical history.

Taking too much Stelara (Ustekinumab) can potentially lead to an increased risk of side effects and complications. It's crucial to adhere to your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing instructions and not exceed the recommended dosage. If you believe you have accidentally taken more Stelara than you should, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention immediately.

Overdosing on Stelara may result in an increased risk of adverse effects, which can include:

1. Increased Risk of Infections: Stelara is an immunosuppressive medication, and taking too much can make you more susceptible to infections.
2. Allergic Reactions: An overdose can increase the risk of allergic reactions, which can be severe in some cases. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives.
3. Exacerbation of Common Side Effects: Overdosing can lead to an exacerbation of common side effects of Stelara, such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and injection site reactions.
4. Gastrointestinal Problems: Taking too much Stelara may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or upset stomach.

If you believe you have taken an excessive amount of Stelara, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest healthcare facility immediately. In some cases, they may administer treatments to counteract the effects of the overdose.

To prevent accidental overdoses, always follow your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing instructions and do not self-adjust your dosage. Keep track of your medication schedule and contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about your treatment with Stelara. Proper and consistent dosing is essential for managing autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions effectively.

Adhere to these storage guidelines for optimal preservation:

1. Refrigeration: Stelara should be stored in the refrigerator, maintaining a temperature range between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
2. Avoid Freezing: Refrain from freezing, as this can compromise the medication's efficacy.
3. Protect from Light: Store Stelara in its original carton to shield it from light exposure.
4. Room Temperature Storage (Temporary): For travel purposes, Stelara can be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a single period of up to 14 days.
5. Do Not Shake: Gently inspect the medication before use, refraining from utilization if it appears discolored or contains particles.
6. Do Not Use Expired Medication: A critical step involves verifying the expiration date, refraining from using Stelara if it has surpassed this date.

Stelara (Ustekinumab) is a medication used to treat autoimmune conditions, primarily moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Like many medications, it can have potential side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience them to a greater or lesser extent. Common side effects of Stelara may include:

1. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a sore throat are relatively common.
2. Injection Site Reactions: Redness, itching, or pain at the injection site can occur. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
3. Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild and temporary nausea.
4. Oral Thrush: Stelara may increase the risk of developing oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth). Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent this side effect.
5. Headache: Mild to moderate headaches can occur.
6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: In some cases, Stelara may increase the risk of inflammatory bowel disease or exacerbate pre-existing conditions.

It's important to note that more serious side effects can also occur, although they are less common. These can include an increased risk of serious infections, such as tuberculosis and fungal infections, as well as the potential for allergic reactions and injection site reactions. Additionally, Stelara may have an impact on the immune system, which can increase the risk of certain infections.

As with any medication, the benefits of Stelara in treating autoimmune conditions typically outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess the risks and benefits of Stelara for your specific condition and medical history. If you have concerns about side effects or experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Stelara, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance and address your specific needs.

Stelara (Ustekinumab) may interact with other medicines, and it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Certain drugs can potentially interact with Stelara, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Here are some general considerations:

1. Immunosuppressive Medications: Stelara works by suppressing the immune system. Combining it with other immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids or certain biologics, may increase the risk of infections.
2. Live Vaccines: Stelara can affect the immune system's response to vaccines. Avoid live vaccines while on Stelara, as there may be an increased risk of infection.
3. Medications that Affect the Liver: Stelara is processed by the liver, so drugs that affect liver enzymes may impact its metabolism. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking medications that influence liver function.
4. Drugs that Affect the Immune System: Stelara's mechanism involves the immune system, so medications that affect immune responses may interact. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are taking any drugs that modulate the immune system.
5. Biologics: If you are using other biologic medications for autoimmune conditions, discuss this with your healthcare provider, as combining biologics can increase the risk of side effects.
6. Certain Medications for Psoriasis: Some medications used to treat psoriasis, such as methotrexate or cyclosporine, may interact with Stelara. Your healthcare provider will consider the potential risks and benefits of combining these medications.

It's crucial to provide a comprehensive list of all your medications to your healthcare provider to ensure a thorough assessment of potential interactions. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without consulting your healthcare provider. They will guide you based on your specific health condition and the medications you are taking.

Is Stelara injection painful?

The pain experienced during a Stelara (Ustekinumab) injection can vary from person to person. Some individuals may find the injection relatively painless, while others may experience some discomfort. Several factors can influence the level of pain or discomfort during the injection:

1. Individual Sensitivity: People have different pain thresholds, and individual sensitivity to needle injections varies. Some may hardly feel the injection, while others may experience some level of pain.
2. Injection Technique: The way the injection is administered can affect the level of discomfort. Proper technique, such as using a quick, steady motion to insert the needle, can minimize discomfort.
3. Injection Site: The choice of injection site can make a difference. Common injection sites for Stelara include the front of the thighs or the lower abdomen. Discuss with your healthcare provider to find the most comfortable site for you.
4. Temperature of Medication: Allowing the Stelara syringe to come to room temperature before injection can reduce pain and discomfort.
5. Needle Size: The size of the needle used can influence pain. Smaller-gauge needles tend to be less painful.
6. Relaxation: Staying relaxed and taking slow, deep breaths during the injection can help reduce anxiety and perceived pain.
7. Medication Warm-Up: Some people find it more comfortable to let the skin warm up before injecting, which can be done by holding the syringe in your hand for a few minutes before administering the injection.

It's essential to communicate with your healthcare provider or nurse about any pain or discomfort you experience during Stelara injections. They can provide guidance on injection techniques and may offer tips to make the process more comfortable. Additionally, if you find the pain to be a significant issue, your healthcare provider can discuss alternative methods or medications to manage your condition.

Overall, while some discomfort is possible during Stelara injections, the benefits of the medication in managing autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions typically outweigh the temporary discomfort.

Does Stelara lower your immune system?

Yes, Stelara (Ustekinumab) is an immunosuppressive medication that works by modulating the immune system. It is classified as a biologic drug that targets specific proteins involved in the inflammatory response. Stelara specifically targets interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), which play roles in immune system regulation.

By inhibiting these cytokines, Stelara helps reduce inflammation and control symptoms in conditions such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease. However, because it modulates the immune system, Stelara can lower the overall immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections.

It's crucial for individuals taking Stelara to be vigilant for signs of infection and to follow their healthcare provider's instructions and guidelines for monitoring and managing their health. If there are concerns about potential infections or other side effects, it's essential to contact a healthcare provider promptly.

The use of Stelara and other immunosuppressive medications should be closely monitored and managed by a healthcare provider to achieve the best balance between controlling the autoimmune or inflammatory condition and minimizing the risk of infections and other potential side effects.

How long can Stelara be out of the fridge?

Stelara (Ustekinumab) should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C to maintain its effectiveness and safety. However, there are specific guidelines for how long Stelara can be out of the refrigerator under certain circumstances:

1. Travel: If you need to take Stelara with you for travel or other reasons, the medication can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C) for a single period of up to 30 days. During this time, it's crucial to protect the medication from direct sunlight and extreme heat.
2. Brief Periods: If Stelara is briefly out of the refrigerator for a short time, such as when preparing to administer the injection, it should not pose a problem as long as you return it to the refrigerator promptly.
3. Returning to Refrigerator: Once Stelara has been out of the refrigerator at room temperature for any period (up to 30 days for travel), it should be stored back in the refrigerator until the next use.

Always follow the manufacturer's storage instructions provided in the medication package. Proper storage is essential to maintain the effectiveness of Stelara. If you have concerns or questions about the storage of Stelara, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

How long does Stelara stay in your system?

The duration that Stelara (Ustekinumab) remains in your system can vary from person to person and may depend on several factors, including your individual metabolism, the specific autoimmune or inflammatory condition being treated, and the frequency of dosing. However, it's important to understand that Stelara is typically administered in a way that maintains a consistent level of the medication in your system.

Here are some general guidelines for how long Stelara remains active in your body:

1. Regular Dosing: Stelara is typically administered on a regular schedule, often every 8 to 12 weeks, to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system. This helps keep your autoimmune or inflammatory condition under control.
2. Half-Life: The elimination half-life of Stelara, or the time it takes for half of the medication to be eliminated from your body, is estimated to be approximately three to four weeks. This means that it takes several weeks for the medication to be significantly reduced in your system after a dose.
3. Sustained Effect: While the medication's concentration in your bloodstream decreases over time, the therapeutic effect can be sustained well beyond the time it takes for the medication to be eliminated from your body. This is why regular dosing is necessary to maintain disease control.
4. Individual Variation: The duration of action and effectiveness of Stelara can vary among individuals. Some people may find that the medication remains effective for the entire dosing interval, while others may experience a decrease in effectiveness toward the end of the dosing cycle.

It's important to follow your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing schedule and to attend regular follow-up appointments. If you have concerns about the duration of action or the effectiveness of Stelara, discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary to ensure you receive the most benefit from the medication.

How long does Stelara take to work?

The time it takes for Stelara (Ustekinumab) to start working can vary from person to person and depends on the specific condition being treated. In many cases, patients may start to notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks to a few months of starting Stelara treatment. However, it's essential to keep in mind the following factors that can influence how long it takes for Stelara to be effective:

1. Condition Being Treated: The response time to Stelara can vary depending on the autoimmune or inflammatory condition being treated. Some individuals may experience relief from their symptoms relatively quickly, while others may require more time for the medication to take full effect.
2. Dosing Frequency: The dosing schedule prescribed by your healthcare provider can also impact how quickly you experience the effects of Stelara. In some cases, an initial loading dose may be given to help achieve a faster response.
3. Individual Variation: Each person's body may respond differently to the medication. Some individuals may notice a significant improvement in a matter of weeks, while others may require a few months to achieve optimal results.
4. Severity of the Condition: The severity of your autoimmune or inflammatory condition can affect how long it takes for Stelara to work. Those with more severe symptoms may take longer to experience relief.

It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing schedule and continue taking Stelara as directed, even if you don't notice immediate improvement. It may take time for the medication to fully control your condition, so be patient and communicate regularly with your healthcare provider to track your progress.

If you have concerns about the time it's taking for Stelara to work or if you're experiencing side effects or a lack of improvement, discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can adjust your treatment plan or explore other options to better manage your condition.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.