See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Stelara IV Infusion treatments.
Stelara IV is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease (CD) where treatment with immunomodulators, corticosteroids, or one or more TNF blockers failed
- active psoriatic arthritis
- moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with a candidacy for phototherapy or systemic therapy
What is Stelara IV?
Stelara IV targets proteins, IL-12 and IL-23, which are thought to be associated with plaque psoriasis, gastrointestinal, joint and skin inflammation. For Crohn’s patients, Stelara is administered via a single infusion, typically at least one hour, and followed by an injection once every eight weeks until patients have received six total injections. For patients with psoriatic arthritis or plaque psoriasis, Stelara is administered subcutaneously at week one and week 4, followed by doses received every 12 weeks.
Stelara IV Infusion Dosage & Administration
Stelara IV Side Effects
Preparing for Your Stelara IV Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Stelara IV Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Stelara IV Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Stelara IV Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Stelara IV
Every Stelara IV Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease (CD) where treatment with immunomodulators, corticosteroids, or one or more TNF blockers failed
- active psoriatic arthritis
- moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with a candidacy for phototherapy or systemic therapy
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Stelara IV treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Stelara IV treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
