New Ustekinumab Biosimilar Availability: What You Need to Know

As of September 1st, 2024, additional biosimilar versions of the psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment Ustekinumab will become available in the UK. This is following the expiration of Stelara's patent exclusivity on July 19th 2024.

This is a huge milestone, offering people living with psoriasis and PsA new choices and treatment options for managing their condition.

New Ustekinumab Biosimilars Available

Three additional biosimilar brands will be available alongside Stelara starting September 1st 2024:

• Uzpruvo (Stada, Thornton & Ross): product information is accessible via the EMC website
• Wezenla (Amgen): product information is available on the EMC website
• Pyzchiva (Sandoz): product information can be found on the MHRA website.

In addition to these, two more companies are expected to launch their Ustekinumab biosimilars pending marketing authorisation. This is TBC by November 1st, 2024.

Ustekinumab Formats and Types

Stelara will be the only Ustekinumab available in pre-filled pen format, which is currently used by about 2% of users.

The pre-filled pen is particularly useful for those with limited dexterity, for example people with psoriasis affecting the hands or PsA.

All other variations of Ustekinumab will only be available in syringe or vial formats - for at least the next year.

The 45mg vial won’t be available for every product (therefore children are likely to continue on Stelara).

NHS Trusts & Making A Switch

Your local NHS trust will inform you about the options to switch from Stelara to a biosimilar. Some people might feel uneasy about switching, especially if they've experienced problems with medication deliveries in the past.

Last year, Stelara changed its delivery service, leading to some issues. To avoid this, the companies making the new biosimilars are being encouraged to use the same delivery services.

The first group likely to switch to the new biosimilars will be those who get their injections from nurses. These nurses will be trained on how to use the new products, and patients will also be shown how to use the syringes for the new medications.

Where Can I Find More Information?

If you want to learn more about the new medications, you can find information on the EMC and MHRA websites.

If you have any worries about switching medications or how they will be delivered to you, be sure to talk to your GP or dermatologist.

It's important to discuss with your doctors, to figure out the best treatment for your specific needs.