Ustekinumab

For the treatment of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis ustekinumab is given in 2 stages.

First dose: The first dose of ustekinumab is given by slow injection into a vein in your arm (called intravenous infusion), by a doctor or nurse. The first dose of ustekinumab is different for different people, depending on your body weight.

All subsequent doses: After this starting dose, all future doses of ustekinumab are given by injection just under the skin (subcutaneously), usually 90mg every 8 weeks. Ustekinumab comes as a ready-to-use, prefilled syringe that contains one dose (90mg).

Some people who are able to, and who have received training from a healthcare professional, can give themselves the subcutaneous injection. Otherwise it can be given by another person (eg, a family/whānau member or friend after proper training, or by your doctor or nurse). If you're unsure about how to inject ustekinumab or if you have any questions, always ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you.

Preparation

Store ustekinumab syringes in the fridge. It's best to bring the syringe up to room temperature before using it. You can take it out of the fridge 15 to 30 minutes before you use it, or warm it in your hands for about 1 minute. Don't warm it in the microwave or in hot water. Syringes may be stored out of the fridge for a maximum of 30 days. Write the date on the pack if you take them out of the fridge and use them within 30 days.

Injection site

Choose an injection site on the front of your thighs or your abdomen (belly) at least 5 cm from your belly button. The injection site should be different from your last injection site to prevent any bruising or thickening of the skin. Don't inject into a red or swollen area. Don't put the needle in too deep, it only needs to go under the skin.

Missed doses

If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as you remember. If you're within a day of your next injection, forget the missed one and carry on with your usual schedule. Don't take extra injections to make up for a forgotten dose.

Here are some things to know when you're taking ustekinumab. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

• Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you are allergic to latex.
• Ustekinumab weakens your body’s defence (immune) system, so you're more likely to pick up infections. It's important to avoid anyone who has chickenpox or shingles.
• Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while using ustekinumab.
• Some vaccines shouldn't be taken if you are on ustekinumab. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist first. It's safe for you to have the annual flu vaccine.
• Ustekinumab may interact with a few medicines and herbal supplements, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting ustekinumab or before starting any new medicines, including those you may buy over-the-counter.

Like all medicines, ustekinumab can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine.