Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Stelara (Ustekinumab) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Stelara 45mg Subcutaneous | $13,000 – $15,000 | $500 – $2,500 |
| Stelara 90mg Subcutaneous | $13,500 – $16,000 | $600 – $3,000 |
| Stelara 130mg IV (Crohn's induction) | $16,000 – $20,000 | $1,000 – $4,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: J3357
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Specialty tier — prior authorization required; dosing every 8-12 weeks
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Stelara costs $13,000 to $16,000 per injection without insurance. Because it is dosed every 8-12 weeks, annual costs can reach $65,000 to $100,000.
Stelara treats plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
There is no generic for Stelara yet, but biosimilars are expected. Patient assistance programs can significantly reduce costs.