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Stelara (ustekinumab)

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) · Phase 3 active Biologic

Ustekinumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines, which are key drivers of inflammatory and autoimmune responses.

Ustekinumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the IL-12 and IL-23 cytokines, which are key drivers of inflammatory and autoimmune responses. Used for Plaque psoriasis, Psoriatic arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis.

At a glance

Generic nameStelara (ustekinumab)
SponsorNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Drug classIL-12/IL-23 inhibitor (monoclonal antibody)
TargetIL-12 p40 subunit / IL-23 p40 subunit
ModalityBiologic
Therapeutic areaImmunology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Ustekinumab binds to the p40 subunit shared by IL-12 and IL-23, preventing these interleukins from activating T cells and other immune cells that drive inflammation. By inhibiting these pathways, it reduces pathogenic Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and proliferation, thereby suppressing the inflammatory cascade underlying autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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