Stelara Effects: Frequent, Mild, and Potentially Severe
Stelara, a medication used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, can have significant effects on a person's health. It's crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits before starting treatment.
Before you begin using Stelara, discuss your health history with your doctor. This drug may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or other factors that could affect their health. It's also important to inform your doctor about any history of cancer, as Stelara may increase the risk of certain cancers, particularly nonmelanoma skin cancer.
Stelara may cause symptoms of cancer, such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, cough, and skin changes. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
One potential side effect of Stelara is joint pain, although this was not reported in clinical trials. If you experience joint pain, talk with your doctor.
Stelara may also increase the risk of certain infections, including bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Serious infections from Stelara include appendicitis, cellulitis, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, reactivation of tuberculosis, and serious urinary tract infections. During Stelara treatment, your doctor will monitor you for symptoms of TB and other infections.
If you experience symptoms of an infection, symptoms of cancer, or symptoms of a mild allergic reaction while receiving Stelara, contact your doctor right away. Symptoms of an infection may include a burning sensation when urinating, abdominal pain, chills, fever, cough, coughing up blood, feeling very tired, producing more urine than usual, shortness of breath, unintended weight loss.
In rare cases, Stelara may cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include rash, itching, flushing, swelling under your skin, swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat. If you have a mild allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. If your symptoms are serious and you think you're having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Stelara works by decreasing the activity of your immune system, which may increase your risk of an allergic reaction. If you have a latex allergy, you should discuss this with your doctor, as Stelara may not be the right treatment for you.
It's also worth noting that Stelara may not be safe to receive while either pregnant or breastfeeding. If you'd like to learn more about Stelara, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Less common but serious side effects of Stelara include Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES), a rare brain condition causing symptoms such as headache, seizures, confusion, and vision changes. This condition can develop from days to months, or even after a year on the medication.
If you experience symptoms of PRES, seek emergency medical help right away. While serious side effects are rare, they can be life-threatening and require prompt medical evaluation.
By understanding the potential risks and benefits of Stelara, you can make an informed decision about your treatment. Always consult with your doctor to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
- Stelara, intended for treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, may increase the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer in individuals with a history of cancer, so it's essential to discuss this with your doctor.
- In certain medical conditions or other factors affecting health, Stelara may not be appropriate, making it important to share your health history with your doctor before starting treatment.
- Potential side effects of Stelara can include joint pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, cough, and skin changes, as well as an increased risk of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, such as appendicitis, cellulitis, and pneumonia.
- In rare cases, Stelara may cause serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis and angioedema, which could result in symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling under the skin, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
- Less common but serious side effects of Stelara include Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES), characterized by headache, seizures, confusion, and vision changes, which can develop from days to months or even a year after starting the medication.
