Key takeaways
Stelara (ustekinumab) and Skyrizi (risankizumab) are both medications used to treat autoimmune conditions like plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease, as well as ulcerative colitis. They belong to the same medication class, interleukin antagonists, which help reduce inflammation by blocking certain proteins in the immune system. However, they have some differences. Stelara is available for both adults and children as young as 6 years old for some indications, whereas Skyrizi is only approved for adults. Stelara is typically injected under the skin every 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the condition, while Skyrizi is given every 2 to 3 months after initial doses. Both medications can weaken your immune system, but Stelara has additional risks like posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and lung swelling. Common side effects of Stelara include nasal passage inflammation and headaches, while Skyrizi may cause upper respiratory infections and joint pain. Neither medication is available in a generic form.
