Steqeyma (Ustekinumab-Stba) for Psoriasis

Overview
Steqeyma is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children ages 6 years and older who are candidates for phototherapy (light therapy) or systemic therapy (treatment affecting the entire body). It is also indicated for adults and children ages 6 and up with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Steqeyma is also known by its drug name, ustekinumab-stba.

Steqeyma is a biosimilar, meaning it is highly similar to an already approved biologic drug, Stelara (ustekinumab), with no significant clinical differences in safety or effectiveness. It works by blocking the activity of proteins called interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, which contribute to inflammation. By inhibiting these proteins, Steqeyma helps reduce the immune system’s response, improving symptoms of psoriasis and PsA.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Steqeyma is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. For adults with psoriasis, the recommended dosage is given initially, followed by another dose four weeks later, and then every 12 weeks thereafter. The dose depends on body weight. For PsA, the same initial and subsequent dosing schedule is used. Steqeyma should be administered exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Steqeyma for treating psoriasis and PsA include nasopharyngitis (cold-like symptoms), upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and fatigue. Some people may experience injection site reactions, such as skin discoloration or swelling.

Rare but serious side effects may include severe infections like tuberculosis (TB) and fungal infections, certain types of cancers, hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis), posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES, a brain condition that can cause headache, seizures, and confusion), and noninfectious pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs not caused by an infection).

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Label: Steqeyma — Ustekinumab Injection, Solution — DailyMed