Ustekinumab - intravenous


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Ustekinumab is used to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract) such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
How do I use this medicine?
Ustekinumab is to be given intravenously (into the vein) via a drip. It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.

Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.

This medicine is only given once as a starting dose of your treatment. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment depending on your condition, effectiveness of the therapy, and your tolerability to this medicine.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have any active or severe infection (such as tuberculosis) as Ustekinumab may not be suitable for you.

Alert your doctor if you have been recently vaccinated.

You must avoid any vaccinations without consulting with your doctor.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • history of infection that keeps coming back
  • history of TB (an infection known as tuberculosis) or have been in close contact to someone with this condition
  • diabetes
  • history of cancer or tumour growth
  • receiving allergy immunotherapy (a treatment that prevents allergic reactions) or phototherapy (a treatment using ultraviolet [UV] light)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
  • Before starting treatment with Ustekinumab, your doctor may require you to have a tuberculosis (TB) test (e.g. tuberculin skin test).
  • Routine tests (e.g. complete blood count, antibody test) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine.
Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What side effects could I experience?
Ustekinumab may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, runny or clogged nose, throat pain, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, skin itch, back, muscle, or joint pain, tiredness, and redness and pain at the site of injection.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
  • confusion, severe headache, seizures or fits and changes in vision
  • cough and shortness of breath
  • signs of serious infection such as fever, tiredness, persistent cough, and flu-like symptoms
  • signs of tumour growth such as unusual lumps or swollen glands, unusual skin changes or unexpected weight loss or gain
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I use this with other medicines?
Avoid vaccinations with live vaccines during treatment with Ustekinumab.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C.

Do not freeze Ustekinumab, otherwise it will no longer be effective and should not be used. Protect from light. Do not shake.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on ustekinumab - intravenous and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
Exclusive offer for doctors
Register for a MIMS account and receive free medical publications worth $768 a year.
Already a member? Sign in
Exclusive offer for doctors
Register for a MIMS account and receive free medical publications worth $768 a year.
Already a member? Sign in