Stelara is a biologic injection that targets IL-12 and IL-23, inflammatory signals of your immune system that cause psoriasis. By calming this overactive response, Stelara helps reduce redness, plaque development and pain in your skin and joints.
Your Zest team will customize your care based on your goals and how your body responds.
Here’s what to expect:
To get ready and ensure this treatment is safe and effective you’ll need to complete the following:
- Submit baseline photos for your skin severity assessment
- Complete baseline bloodwork, if indicated
- Provide previous treatment records, if requested
Loading Dose
Maintenance Dose
Dose reduction1
Scheduled treatment break2
1 injection to start then 4 weeks later
1 injection every 12 weeks
1 injection every 16 weeks
An average of 6 months off injections
Loading Dose
Maintenance Dose
1 injection to start then 4 weeks later
1 injection every 12 weeks
1 Considered after 12 weeks of treatment.
2 Chiu et al. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2023.
- Many people notice less itching and fewer joint symptoms as early as 2-4 weeks.
- By 12 weeks, 67% of people have clearer or nearly clear skin!3
3 Stelara Efficacy – Plaque Psoriasis. stelarahcp.com. Accessed April 2025.
Yes! Once your symptoms are under control, your Zest dermatology provider will work with you to create a long-term plan. This might include stretching out injection intervals or taking planned medication breaks when appropriate.
Most side effects are mild and can include:
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Cold-like symptoms or mild headaches
- Fatigue
To get ready and ensure this treatment is safe and effective you’ll need to complete the following:
- Submit baseline photos for your skin severity assessment
- Complete baseline bloodwork, if indicated
- Provide previous treatment records, if requested
Reach out to Zest if you:
- Develop allergic reactions or infections
- Notice unusual joint pain, vision changes, or unexpected symptoms
Have more questions?
Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!
STELARA is a registered trademark of Janssen Biotech, Inc.
Third party trademarks used herein are trademarks of their respective owners.
Last updated: November 2025
Standard dose
Step 1 dose reduction
Step 2 dose reduction
Scheduled treatment break1
Have more questions?
Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!