Key takeaways
Omvoh (mirikizumab) and Stelara (ustekinumab) are both medications used to treat ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. They belong to the class of interleukin antagonists, but they target different proteins. Omvoh is an interleukin-23 antagonist, while Stelara blocks both interleukin-12 and interleukin-23. Omvoh is administered initially as an intravenous infusion and then as a monthly subcutaneous injection, whereas Stelara starts with a single intravenous infusion followed by subcutaneous injections every 8 to 12 weeks. Omvoh is only available as a brand-name medication, while Stelara has biosimilars available. Common side effects of Omvoh include joint pain and upper respiratory tract infections, while Stelara may cause common cold symptoms and headaches. Both medications can increase the risk of infections, but Stelara also carries a risk of certain cancers and a rare brain condition.
