Stelara is a medication that is used to treat various autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease. It is a biologic drug that works by targeting specific proteins in the immune system, reducing inflammation and symptoms of these conditions. While the effectiveness of Stelara has been proven by numerous studies, its cost per dose has been a source of concern for many patients. However, there are several positive benefits of Stelara that make the cost per dose a worthwhile investment.

Effective Treatment for Chronic Conditions

One of the most significant benefits of Stelara is its effectiveness in treating chronic autoimmune conditions. Many patients who suffer from psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or Crohn's disease have tried multiple treatments with little to no success. Stelara has proven to be a life-changing treatment for these patients, providing relief from the symptoms and improving their quality of life. It is also a long-term solution, with many patients experiencing long-term remission and reduced flare-ups with consistent use of the medication.

Minimal Side Effects

Another positive aspect of Stelara is that it has relatively minimal side effects compared to other biologic drugs. While all medications have some potential side effects, the majority of patients who use Stelara do not experience any adverse effects or only have minor reactions. This is essential for patients who have already been struggling with their health and may be hesitant to try a new treatment that could potentially make them feel worse.

Convenience and Less Frequent Dosing

Stelara is administered through a subcutaneous injection, which means that patients can administer the medication themselves at home after proper training from their healthcare provider. This is a considerable convenience for patients as they do not have to make frequent visits to the doctor's office for treatment. Furthermore, Stelara is typically dosed every 8 weeks, while some other biologic drugs require weekly or bi-weekly injections. This reduced frequency of dosing results in fewer missed doses and better treatment adherence, leading to more effective results.

Improved Quality of Life

Autoimmune conditions can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The physical symptoms, such as painful joints, itchy rashes, or digestive issues, can make daily tasks challenging and affect a person's ability to work and perform essential daily activities. Stelara has shown to not only improve these physical symptoms, but it also has a positive impact on mental health. Many patients have reported feeling more confident, less anxious, and an overall improvement in their well-being. This improved quality of life is priceless and can justify the cost of Stelara for many patients.

Decreased Healthcare Costs in the Long Run

While Stelara may seem expensive per dose, it is essential to consider the long-term cost of not treating chronic conditions. Untreated or poorly managed autoimmune conditions can lead to worsening symptoms, hospitalizations, and costly emergency room visits. These expenses can quickly add up and may end up costing more than the cost of Stelara treatment in the long run. By effectively managing these conditions with Stelara, patients can potentially avoid these additional healthcare costs.

In conclusion, while the cost per dose of Stelara may seem high, the benefits of this medication far outweigh the cost. It has proven to be a highly effective treatment for chronic conditions with minimal side effects, improved quality of life, and potentially lower long-term healthcare costs. With proper insurance coverage and assistance programs from the manufacturer, Stelara can be made affordable for many patients in need. Ultimately, the positive benefits of Stelara make it a worthwhile investment for those suffering from autoimmune conditions.