Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

Psoriasis (sr·ai·uh·suhs) 
psoriatic arthritis (saw·ree·a·tuhk aar·thrai·tuhs) 
Crohns' disease (Krow-nz) 

This is Stelara. It is used to treat several conditions, such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, 
and Crohns' disease. These conditions are caused by an overactive immune system. 
Stelara calms the immune system, which may help reduce your symptoms. 

Patients who have Crohn's disease will get their first dose through a vein in the arm. 
Otherwise, this medicine is given as an injection under the skin, which is called a "sub-Q injection". 

You should inject it exactly as your doctor tells you to. Before using it at home, you 
should read the "instructions for use". You should also practice giving an injection with 
your healthcare provider. This will help you feel confident doing it on your own. Be sure 
you know how to rotate injection sites, and how to dispose of needles. If you have any 
questions, your doctor or pharmacist can help. 

Common side effects include a headache, itching, redness at the injection site, and 
feeling tired. These are normal if they are mild, and should go away. If these or other 
side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your 
doctor or pharmacist. 

Stelara can lower your ability to fight infections. You should tell your doctor right away if 
you think you have an infection. This includes ANY infection, like open cuts, a head 
cold, urinary infection, vaginal yeast infection, and the flu. You should read the 
"Medication Guide" for more information about infections, cancers, and other rare but 
serious effects. 

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, 
herbal remedies, or vitamins, and before receiving any vaccines. 

Women must check with their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding. 

For best results with Stelara, make sure to keep to your schedule. Do not miss any doses, and plan ahead for refills. If you have any further questions, feel free to talk to your healthcare provider about support services available for patients.