Does Stelara cause weight gain?

Weight gain was not reported by people taking Stelara (ustekinumab) in clinical trials. Other studies around Stelara and weight changes show mixed results.

Is there evidence that Stelara causes weight gain?

Since Stelara was FDA approved, additional studies have been conducted. Some specifically set out to investigate whether Stelara causes weight gain in people who take it for various health conditions. Below is a summary of a few studies looking at Stelara’s effects on body weight.

• A small study showed people taking Stelara for irritable bowel disease (IBD) gained around 4 kg (8.8 lbs) after taking Stelara for 12 months. People taking Stelara continued to gain weight through 24 months, with a reported weight gain of about 6.1 kg (13.4 lbs).
• A separate study of patients taking Stelara for IBD showed that people taking medication gained a modest amount of weight through week 54. In the study, people taking Stelara gained about 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) at week 30 and 2.3 kg (5 lbs) at week 54.
• A 7-month study of Stelara in people with plaque psoriasis showed Stelara did not increase body mass index (BMI).
• A small study found that 7 out of 11 patients taking Stelara for plaque psoriasis gained around 2.3 kg (5 lbs) after 28 weeks of treatment.

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Why might Stelara cause weight gain?

It is not clear why Stelara might cause weight gain. Some researchers believe it could be due to its influence on metabolism. Stelara works by blocking inflammatory chemicals called cytokines, but it is thought that these might play a role in limiting weight gain.

More research is needed to understand how Stelara affects body weight. If you notice changes in your weight (weight gain or weight loss), it is important to let your healthcare provider know. They can help you determine if it may be due to your medication or another reason.

This is not all the information you need to know about Stelara (ustekinumab) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.