The annual cost of Stelara can vary significantly depending on factors such as insurance coverage, dosage, and geographic location [1]. Without insurance, the price for a single vial of Stelara can range from approximately $15,000 to $20,000 or more [1]. This translates to an annual cost that could exceed $100,000 for patients requiring multiple doses per year.
How much does Stelara cost with insurance?
Insurance plans often reduce out-of-pocket expenses for Stelara. The actual cost to a patient with insurance will depend on their specific plan's formulary, deductible, copay, and coinsurance obligations [2]. Some patients may qualify for manufacturer patient assistance programs, which can further lower their costs [3].
What is the typical dosage and frequency of Stelara?
Stelara is administered by injection. The dosage and frequency depend on the condition being treated and the patient's response. For conditions like plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, an initial dose is given, followed by subsequent doses typically every 8 to 12 weeks [4]. For Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the initial maintenance dose is also typically every 8 to 12 weeks [4].
When does Stelara's patent expire?
The patents protecting Stelara (ustekinumab) are complex and involve multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug, including its composition and methods of use [5]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expiry dates for pharmaceuticals. According to available information, key patents for Stelara began expiring around 2023, paving the way for potential biosimilar competition [5]. However, the exact date of market exclusivity loss can be influenced by ongoing litigation and the specific patents involved.
What are the alternative treatments for conditions treated by Stelara?
Alternative treatments for conditions like plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis include other biologic therapies, small molecule drugs, and traditional medications [6]. These alternatives may have different efficacy, side effect profiles, and cost structures. Examples include other TNF inhibitors, IL-17 inhibitors, and JAK inhibitors [6].
Who makes Stelara?
Stelara is manufactured by Janssen Biotech, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson [4].
What is the active ingredient in Stelara?
The active ingredient in Stelara is ustekinumab [4]. It is a human monoclonal antibody that targets the interleukin-12 and -23 signaling pathways [4].
What are the potential side effects of Stelara?
Common side effects of Stelara can include upper respiratory infections, headache, fatigue, and injection site reactions [7]. More serious side effects, though less common, can include serious infections, certain types of cancer, and allergic reactions [7]. Patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.
How do biosimilars impact Stelara's cost and availability?
The introduction of biosimilar versions of ustekinumab is expected to increase competition and potentially lead to lower prices for patients and healthcare systems [5]. Biosimilars are highly similar to the reference biologic drug and are approved by regulatory agencies to have no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, purity, and potency [8].
Sources:
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/stelara
2. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/stelara
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/stelara
4. https://www.janssen.com/
5. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/stelara
6. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355596
7. https://www.janssen.com/
8. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/about-biosimilars