How much is a stelara injection?

I’m not a medical professional, but I can share some general information that may help you get a sense of the cost of Stelara (ustekinumab) injections.

1. Typical retail price

• Retail (pharmacy) cost: For the 90‑mg pre‑filled syringe (the most common dose), the wholesale price is often in the range of $3,500–$4,200 per dose. Because Stelara is given as a series of injections (usually the first two doses are 90 mg, followed by maintenance doses of 90 mg or 180 mg every 12 weeks), the total cost for a year can exceed $10,000–$15,000 if you’re paying out‑of‑pocket.
  
  

2. What you actually pay

• Insurance coverage: Most U.S. health plans cover Stelara, but the amount you pay depends on your deductible, copay, coinsurance, and whether you’re on an “in‑network” provider. Some plans cover the drug fully after a deductible is met; others require a coinsurance of 20‑30 %.
  
• Patient assistance programs: Janssen (the manufacturer) offers a patient assistance program that can provide the drug at a discount or for free to qualifying patients who meet income and insurance criteria. It’s worth checking if you qualify.
  
• Specialty pharmacy discounts: Some specialty pharmacies negotiate price discounts with insurers that can reduce out‑of‑pocket costs.
  
  

3. How to find your exact cost

1. Ask your pharmacy or doctor’s office: They can look up the current price for your plan and tell you the expected copay or coinsurance.
   
2. Use online tools: Websites like GoodRx or the RxList “Drug Pricing” tool let you input your drug, dose, and ZIP code to see estimated costs for different insurance plans.
   
3. Contact your insurance: Call the member services number and ask for the copayment for Stelara or the cost for a 90‑mg dose under your plan.
   
   

4. Other costs to consider

• Administration fees: If you’re receiving the injection at a clinic or infusion center, there may be an additional fee for the healthcare professional who administers the shot.
  
• Monitoring: Stelara requires regular blood tests and doctor visits to monitor efficacy and safety. Those visits have their own cost.
  
  

Bottom line

Stelara can be expensive, but many patients’ out‑of‑pocket costs are significantly reduced or eliminated through insurance, manufacturer programs, or pharmacy discounts. The best way to know your exact amount is to check with your insurance and pharmacy, and to inquire about any assistance programs that might apply.