How much does ustekinumab cost?

Prices for ustekinumab (Stelara) vary a lot by country, dosing, and your insurance plan. Here’s a practical snapshot for the US, which is where costs are most often discussed:

- Dosing (adult plaque psoriasis as an example):
- If weight ≤ 100 kg: 45 mg per injection at week 0 and week 4, then every 12 weeks.
- If weight > 100 kg: 90 mg per injection on the same schedule.
- List price per injection (rough ballpark):
- 45 mg dose: about $6,000–$8,000 per injection.
- 90 mg dose: about $12,000–$14,000 per injection.
- Typical yearly cost (before insurance or discounts):
- For the 45 mg regimen: 6 injections/year → roughly $36,000–$48,000.
- For the 90 mg regimen: 6 injections/year → roughly $72,000–$84,000.
- Note: these are list prices and don’t reflect rebates, discounts, or patient assistance.
- Out-of-pocket and coverage:
- Most people don’t pay the full list price. Many have insurance copays/coinsurance, and Janssen offers patient assistance programs and savings cards that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Medicare/Medicaid and many private plans negotiate better rates, but your exact cost depends on your plan’s coverage, deductible, and whether you receive any manufacturer assistance.

If you tell me:
- Your country,
- Whether you’re asking about list price vs. out-of-pocket with insurance,
- The prescribed dose (45 mg vs 90 mg) and disease,
I can tailor a more specific estimate and point you to patient-assistance options.