How to Get Stelara with a Prescription
Stelara (ustekinumab) is a prescription biologic for psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Buy it only through licensed pharmacies with a doctor's prescription—it's not available over-the-counter or online without one. Your doctor or specialist submits it via a pharmacy or specialty pharmacy network.[1]
Common Places to Fill a Stelara Prescription
- Retail pharmacies: Chains like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, or Walmart handle it if they stock biologics, but many refer to specialty options due to storage needs (refrigeration).
- Specialty pharmacies: Janssen CarePath partners with Accredo, CVS Specialty, and Optum Specialty for delivery. These manage prior authorizations, insurance, and shipping.[2]
- Hospital or infusion centers: For initial doses (IV for Crohn's), administered on-site; subsequent shots are self-injectable via pharmacy pickup.
Search "Stelara pharmacy locator" on Janssen's site for nearby options.
Cost and Savings Options
Undiscounted, a 90mg syringe runs $25,000+, but copay cards drop it to $5–$20/month for eligible patients. Use Janssen CarePath for assistance programs, including free meds if uninsured.[3]
| Patient Situation | Typical Copay After Savings |
|-------------------|-----------------------------|
| Commercial insurance | $5 |
| Medicare | $0–$100 (varies by plan) |
| Uninsured | Free via Janssen Compass |
Online and Mail-Order Access
Order via Janssen CarePath-connected sites like Accredo.com or CVS.com/specialty after prescription verification. Avoid unverified online sellers—FDA warns of counterfeits for biologics.[4] No direct-to-consumer e-commerce.
Biosimilars and Alternatives Availability
No U.S. Stelara biosimilars yet; patents expire around 2025 (check DrugPatentWatch.com for updates).5 Cheaper options like Humira biosimilars exist for similar conditions, prescribed as alternatives.
[1]: FDA.gov - Stelara Label
[2]: JanssenCarePath.com - Pharmacy Network
[3]: GoodRx.com - Stelara Pricing
[4]: FDA.gov - Importing Drugs