Uses

Ustekinumab is a human monoclonal antibody indicated for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, moderately to severely active Crohn's disease, and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis in adults. It is also approved for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with clinically significant hypersensitivity to ustekinumab products or any excipient.

Side effects

Common adverse reactions include nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and fatigue. Serious adverse effects include opportunistic infections, malignancies, serious hypersensitivity reactions, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, and non-infectious pneumonia.

Warnings

Evaluate patients for active tuberculosis before initiating therapy and monitor for infections during and after treatment. Avoid live vaccines during treatment. Monitor for signs of malignancy, PRES, and non-infectious pneumonia.

How it works

Ustekinumab is a human IgG1-kappa monoclonal antibody that binds to the p40 protein subunit shared by IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines, blocking their signaling. This disrupts the downstream inflammatory cascade including Th1 and Th17 cell activation, reducing psoriatic and inflammatory bowel disease pathology.

Storage

Store refrigerated at 2–8°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.