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Cohasset Medical
256 Hull St.
Rte. 228
Hingham, Massachusetts 02043
Tel: 781 383 0700
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Stelara (ustekinumab) for Psoriasis

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Stelara (ustekinumab) is "biologic" medication for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis in adults.

Stelara is the first of a new type of "biologic" medication for psoriasis that provides effective relief with infrequent dosing. Stelara is given twice in the first month, followed by dosing just four times per year. The relatively long duration of relief between treatments (only 5 doses per year) is one of the benefits of Stelara.

Stelara (ustekinumab) is unique in its mechanism of action as well, blocking interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, immune-system proteins linked to inflammation. Other biologic medications block different components of the immune system, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF).

Three clinical studies of 2,266 psoriasis patients showed Stelara to be safe and effective for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis.

One study showed that 2 out of 3 patients treated with Stelara saw at least 75% clearance after just 12 weeks as measured by the PASI score and other clinical outcomes . In another medical study, clearance of psoriasis lesions was maintained at one year in most patients who initially responded to Stelara and continued to receive treatment. The safety and effectiveness of Stelara have not been evaluated beyond two years. Individual results may vary.

Unlike some biologic medications that may be self-injected at home, Stelara should be administered by a medical professional.

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© 2009 Vivacare.
Last updated October 2, 2009.

This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns.

Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.