The price of Stelara (ustekinumab) varies significantly depending on factors such as dosage, quantity, insurance coverage, and pharmacy. However, it is generally considered a high-cost medication.
How much does Stelara cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a single vial of Stelara can cost upwards of \$6,500 to over \$10,000. For example, a 45 mg injection might be priced around \$7,000, while a 90 mg injection could be approximately \$9,000 to \$10,000 [1]. The total annual cost for patients without adequate insurance can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
What is the typical price for Stelara with insurance?
Insurance coverage significantly reduces the out-of-pocket cost for Stelara. Patients with insurance may pay a co-payment, which can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per prescription, depending on their specific plan. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization or step therapy, where patients must try other medications first.
Are there patient assistance programs for Stelara?
Yes, Janssen, the manufacturer of Stelara, offers patient assistance programs. The Janssen CarePath program provides support for eligible patients, including co-pay assistance for those with commercial insurance and free medication for uninsured or underinsured patients who meet certain financial criteria [2].
What is the history of Stelara's patent and exclusivity?
Stelara was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009 for plaque psoriasis [3]. As a biologic drug, it has a period of market exclusivity. Patent expiry dates are crucial for the potential market entry of biosimilars. Information on patent expiry and exclusivity for Stelara can be found on resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [4].
When might biosimilars of Stelara become available?
The availability of biosimilars for Stelara depends on the expiry of its patents and any subsequent legal challenges or agreements. Biosimilars are similar to biologic medicines but are not identical. Their introduction typically leads to lower drug prices. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent information that can indicate potential biosimilar entry timelines [4].
How does Stelara's price compare to other similar treatments?
Stelara is a biologic medication used to treat autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Other biologic treatments for these conditions also carry significant price tags. Prices can vary based on the specific drug, its mechanism of action, and its market exclusivity status.
What are the common dosages and administration of Stelara?
Stelara is typically administered as an injection. The dosage and frequency depend on the condition being treated and the patient's weight. For instance, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis often start with an initial IV dose, followed by subcutaneous injections of 45 mg or 90 mg every 4 or 8 weeks, respectively [3]. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis also follow specific dosing regimens.
What are the main conditions treated by Stelara?
Stelara is approved to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, and moderate to severe Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis in adult patients who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to conventional therapies [3].
**Sources:
1. GoodRx. (n.d.). *Ustekinumab Prices, Coupons, and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/ustekinumab
2. Janssen CarePath. (n.d.). Stelara® (ustekinumab). Retrieved from https://www.janssen.com/us/our-products/stelara
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Drug Approvals and Databases. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-approvals-and-databases/drug-approvals-and-databases (Specific approval information for Stelara can be found by searching the FDA database.)
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Stelara Patent Expiry. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/