What is "ustekinumab"

n. A human monoclonal antibody directed against interleukin 12 and interleukin 23, in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Ustekinumab ( INN, experimental name CNTO 1275, proprietary commercial name Stelara, Centocor) is a human monoclonal antibody. It is manufactured in the Netherlands. It is directed against interleukin 12 and interleukin 23, naturally occurring proteins that regulate the immune system and immune-mediated inflammatory disorders.

Since 2009, Ustekinumab is approved in Canada, Europe and the United States to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

It has been tested in Phase II studies for sarcoidosis, (versus golimumab (Simponi)).

It was found not effective for multiple sclerosis.

On September 24, 2013, the FDA approved the use of ustekinumab for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis.