About ustekinumab
Interleukin-12/23 monoclonal antibody
Used for
- Plaque psoriasis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
Usual adult dose
Usually 45 or 90 mg under the skin at weeks 0 and 4, then every 12 weeks for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis start with one weight-based intravenous dose, then a dose under the skin 8 weeks later and every 8 weeks.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 6 years and older with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, dosing is weight-based under the skin at weeks 0 and 4, then every 12 weeks.
Common side effects
- Upper respiratory infections
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Injection-site reactions
Important warnings
- May increase risk of serious infections; test for tuberculosis before treatment.
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
- Rarely associated with serious allergic reactions or posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.
- Use caution with a history of recurrent infections or malignancy.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy information is limited; use only when the expected benefit outweighs potential risks.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether ustekinumab enters human milk; discuss potential risks and benefits.
Interactions
- Live vaccines may cause infection and should be avoided.
- Other immunosuppressive medicines may increase infection risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.