ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
After starter doses, it's a shot every 8 to 12 weeks.
What it's used for
- Psoriasis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
How to take it
- Inject under the skin as scheduled.
- You'll be tested for TB and hepatitis B before starting. Avoid live vaccines.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Colds
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
Call your provider todayFever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection
Call 911Headache, confusion, seizures, or vision problems (very rare brain swelling)
Warnings
- Serious infections are possible.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Few interactions.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Ustekinumab (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.