Also known as Stelara, ustekinumab targets a part of the immune system involved in psoriasis. It is given as a shot. It can be a very effective treatment.
The dose of depends on your weight. Tell your doctor if you have changes in your weight during treatment.
Side effects of ustekinumab
Fatigue
Headache
Upper respiratory infections (colds)
Rare but serious side effects of ustekinumab
Higher risk of getting infections, such as tuberculosis and hepatitis B and C.
You should be checked for these infections before starting this medicine.
Stop the medicine and call your doctor if you have signs of infection.
Higher risk of certain cancers and a serious brain condition.
Tell your doctor if you have a personal or family history of multiple sclerosis.
Serious allergic reaction.
Tell your doctor if you have a latex allergy.
Vaccines and ustekinumab
Get a flu shot each year, unless you have been told not to by your doctor. Talk with your doctor before getting live vaccines.
Some live vaccines
Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
Nasal flu mist
Varicella
Zostavax (shingles)
Yellow fever
Typhoid
Live poliovirus
Pregnancy and ustekinumab
Talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant. Right now there is no known risk of harm to the baby when this medicine is taken during pregnancy.