Stelara Prefilled Syringe

What is Stelara?

Stelara, developed by Janssen Biotech, is an immunosuppressant that reduces the effects of inflammation caused by a chemical substance in the human body. It is one of the selective immunomodulating medications. These are also called biologics.

It is used to fight plaque psoriasis, as well as psoriatic arthritis in adults. It is prescribed for both adults and children for plaque psoriasis. It is also prescribed with methotrexate, and it is for adult candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy.

Adolescents aged between 6 and 17 can use it in place of other therapies if they don’t tolerate them or if other therapies do not work. It can also be used to treat Crohn’s disease in adults when other medicines have had no effect. Ulcerative colitis can also be treated with Stelara.

How does Stelara work?

Stelara can be injected into the body to suppress the immune system with an antibody that binds to interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23. These are chemicals that the body’s cells produce to bring about immune reactions. Scientists believe that when a stimulant, like interleukin, becomes attached to the lymphocyte, the increased production of T-lymphocytes is what causes psoriasis. Skin plaques of psoriasis are caused by skin cells that grow swiftly due to the stimulated T-lymphocytes.

This medicine works by decreasing inflammation and excessive skin cell production which reduces psoriasis symptoms. It attaches to IL-12 and IL-23 to stop them from stimulating T-lymphocytes. In studies, after being treated with Stelara for 12 weeks, between 59% and 73% of patients had cleared or minimal psoriasis.

Dosage

Plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis

Adults with plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis are normally injected with 45 mg which is repeated 4 weeks later. After that, the dose is repeated every 12 weeks. A dose of 90 mg can be prescribed for adults weighing over 100 kg. Also, some people may need to receive their injection at 8-week intervals instead of intervals of 12 weeks.

The injection may be given at the top of the thigh or in the abdomen, roughly a couple of inches away from the belly button.

The dosage for children and adolescents aged between 6 and 17 with plaque psoriasis is based on their weight.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

For Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, the first dose is given intravenously and is based on the patient’s body weight. Subsequent 90 mg doses are given at 8-week intervals as injections under the skin. The doctor may increase the interval and injections may be given every 12 weeks instead.

Most people using this drug can be taught by a medical professional to administer the injection themselves. For the first dose, or the first few doses, patients should be assisted by their doctor, or a nurse, to prepare their injection and take it. It is important that patients do not attempt to administer the injection themselves until they have been trained and know the process.

When taking Stelara, patients should always follow the instructions given by the doctor or pharmacist. Patients should remove the medication from the refrigerator, ready the syringe, and prepare their chosen spot for the injection before giving themselves the injection, as their medical professional has taught them.

The medication might contain small clear or white protein particles. The solution should be slightly yellow or colorless. If you see other particles floating in the solution, or if the solution looks cloudy or discolored, it should not be used.

Side Effects

Not everyone who uses Stelara will experience the side effects listed below. If you are concerned about the possible side effects, you should discuss them, along with the benefits of Stelara with your doctor before you take it.

At least 1% of the patients taking this medication have reported the following side effects. In many cases, these can be managed, or may naturally dissipate over time. Your pharmacist may be able to provide guidance for managing the side effects, however you should speak with your doctor if they are severe or become a nuisance.

• back pain
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• itchiness
• nausea
• muscle or joint pain
• upper respiratory tract infection symptoms
• tiredness
• toothache or infection
• vaginal yeast infection
• vomiting

While the following side effects don’t often occur, they can cause significant issues if you do not follow up with your doctor or medical professional.

• red skin and increased shedding
• itchy and painful rash
• signs of infection
  • fever
  • chills
  • severe diarrhea
  • shortness of breath
  • prolonged dizziness
  • headache
  • stiff neck
  • weight loss
  • listlessness
• signs of skin cancer, such as unusual moles with:
  • irregular borders
  • multicolored moles
  • large or asymmetrical moles
  • small, sensitive bumps on the skin
  • red, raised, scaly patches of skin
• skin infection signs, such as redness, swelling, sensitiveness, and warmth

If any of the following appear, immediately stop using Stelara and find medical help.

• allergic reaction signs, such as:
  • difficulty breathing
  • hives
  • swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Other side effects may occur, you should see your doctor if you develop any symptoms that worry you whilst on Stelara.

Warnings & Precautions

Before starting treatment with Stelara, let your doctor know of any allergies or medical issues you have. Make sure they are aware of all the other medication you are taking. Let them know if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding, or if there are any other health-related issues your doctor needs to know about, as these may have an impact on how you should take it.

Allergies

Seek immediate medical attention if you have any allergic reactions. These include:

• severe rash
• hives
• swollen face or throat
• difficulty breathing

Let your doctor know if you are taking any allergy shots, especially if you are taking them for severe allergic reactions. They may impact your dose of Stelara and its effectiveness. Special monitoring may be required.

Immune system

Your immune system’s ability to fight infections may be compromised by using Stelara. That means you’ll risk of picking up infections or inactive infections becoming activated. Before you begin taking Stelara, your doctor might test you for tuberculosis and may continue carrying out regular immune system tests whilst you are on Stelara. You should get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible if you pick up a significant infection.

Cancer

Stelara can increase your risk of cancer, so if you have cancer, or have had it previously, it is advisable that you talk with your doctor about how it may affect your health.

Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS)

This brain disease is rare but can develop when taking Stelara and might be inadvisable if you have had RPLS before. So make sure your doctor is aware of your previous episode of RPLS. Also, see your doctor if you experience any RPLS symptoms, such as:

• headache
• seizures
• change in awareness, consciousness or vision

Infections

This drug may impact the way your body uses its natural defenses to fight infections. This means your body can be more vulnerable to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

You should not use Stelara during pregnancy unless you and your doctor have considered the benefits and risks. You should seek your doctor’s guidance as soon as you become aware that you are pregnant if you become pregnant while using Stelara. It is not known whether it can be passed from mother to baby through breast milk. However, consult with your doctor if you should continue using it while breastfeeding.

Drug Interactions

It may interact with any of the following drugs, so if you are taking any of them you should let your doctor know or seek guidance from your pharmacist.

• BCG
• baricitinib
• belimumab
• cladribine
• denosumab
• echinacea
• fingolimod
• infliximab
• leflunomide
• natalizumab
• nivolumab
• ocrelizumab
• pimecrolimus
• roflumilast
• siponimod
• tacrolimus
• tofacitinib
• trastuzumab
• upadacitinib
• vaccines

Buy Stelara: Price & Coupons

For many Americans, the high cost of prescription medications can be a significant burden. A prime example of this is the drug Stelara, used for treating various inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and Crohn’s disease. In the U.S., the price for Stelara can be prohibitively expensive, making it challenging for many patients to access the medication they need. However, there is a cost-effective solution available through Pharma Giant, allowing Americans to save significantly on their prescription medications.

By obtaining a prescription from a doctor, U.S. patients can order their medications securely and conveniently from Pharma Giant. Pharma Giant partners with trusted and licensed Canadian pharmacies to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety. Medications are express shipped across the U.S., typically arriving within 3-5 business days, ensuring prompt delivery and minimal disruption to treatment plans.

Pharma Giant offers significant savings, and patients can save even more when they order in larger quantities thanks to bulk pricing. To make this deal even more attractive, Pharma Giant offers a special discount for first-time customers. By using the coupon code STELARA10, new customers can save an additional 10% on their first order, further lowering the financial barrier to accessing essential medications like Stelara.

Stelara Pricing

By purchasing Stelara through Pharma Giant, U.S. patients can significantly reduce their medication costs, especially when taking advantage of bulk pricing, while benefiting from a reliable and expedited service from a trusted Canadian pharmacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer

Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.