What is ustekinumab?
Ustekinumab is an immunosuppressant that reduces the effects of a substance in the body that can cause inflammation.
Ustekinumab is used to treat plaque psoriasis (raised, silvery flaking of the skin) in adults.
Ustekinumab may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about ustekinumab?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ustekinumab or if you have received a BCG (Bacillus Calmette and Guérin) vaccine within the past year (12 months).
Before using ustekinumab, tell your doctor if you have an active infection, a history of tuberculosis or recurrent infections, high blood pressure, a weak immune system, or if you are receiving phototherapy (light therapy).
Your doctor may perform tests to make sure you do not have tuberculosis or other infections.
Make sure you are current on all vaccines before you start treatment with ustekinumab.
Ustekinumab can make it easier for you to get sick. Avoid being near people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses.
Contact your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, flu symptoms, swollen glands, unusual weakness, mouth and throat ulcers, rapid heart rate, rapid and shallow breathing, swelling or redness, pain or burning when you urinate, blood in your urine, severe stomach pain, changes in your bowel habits, cough with yellow or green mucus, stabbing chest pain, or severe headache with confusion, vision problems, or seizure.
Treatment with ustekinumab may increase your risk of developing cancer. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before using ustekinumab?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ustekinumab or if you have received a BCG (Bacillus Calmette and Guérin) vaccine within the past year (12 months).
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:
an active infection;
a history of recurrent infections;
a history of tuberculosis;
high blood pressure;
a weak immune system; or
if you are receiving phototherapy (light therapy).
FDA pregnancy category B. Ustekinumab is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Ustekinumab can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Treatment with ustekinumab may increase your risk of developing cancer. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk.