Key takeaways
Humira (adalimumab) and Stelara (ustekinumab) are both injectable medications used to treat autoimmune conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and plaque psoriasis. However, they belong to different medication classes. Humira is a TNF blocker, while Stelara is an interleukin antagonist that targets IL-12 and IL-23 proteins. Humira is typically injected every 1 to 2 weeks, whereas Stelara is given less frequently, with doses every 8 to 12 weeks after the initial doses. Humira is available as a ready-to-use pen, but it doesn't have a true generic, only biosimilars. Stelara also has biosimilars and is available as a prefilled syringe or vial. Common side effects of Humira include infections and headaches, while Stelara may cause cold symptoms and headaches. Both medications can weaken your immune system, increasing the risk of infections, and you should avoid live vaccines while taking them.
