Stelara is a biologic. Unlike traditional, chemical-based medications, biologics are not classified as “brand” or “generic” products. Instead, biologics have “reference products” and “biosimilars”. For chemical-based medications, a generic contains the same active ingredient as the brand-name drug. Biologics, however, are made from living organisms, making it impossible to create an exact copy. Instead, manufacturers create biosimilars, which are highly similar to the reference product and have no meaningful differences in safety and effectiveness.

Stelara has been identified by PharmacyChecker as a medication that may require cold chain management during shipment to maintain efficacy and safety.

To ensure the cold chain integrity of insulin and other refrigerated pharmaceutical products both domestically and internationally, accredited dispensing pharmacies must ensure manufacturer-specific storage and shipping requirements.

Stelara requires refrigeration between 2 °C to 8 °C (36 °F to 46 °F). If needed, individual prefilled syringes may be stored at room temperature up to 30 °C (86 °F) for a maximum single period of up to 30 days in the original carton to protect from light. Once a syringe has been stored at room temperature, Do not return to the refrigerator.

The PharmacyChecker International Pharmacy Verification Program (IPVP) enforces rigorous standards for the international shipment of products requiring refrigeration. Only PharmacyChecker-accredited dispensing pharmacies located in Tier 1 countries that also hold PharmacyChecker cold chain certification are authorized to internationally dispense and/or ship refrigerated products.

Online pharmacies partnering with accredited dispensing pharmacies that meet cold-chain certification requirements may list prices for refrigerated medications under the "International Price Comparison" tab.

Pharmacies listing refrigerated product prices on PharmacyChecker.com must demonstrate ongoing compliance with IPVP cold chain certification requirements.

We strongly recommend patients avoid ordering refrigerated medications—or any medicines—online from websites that are not verified by the PharmacyChecker International Pharmacy Verification Program or another comparable verification program.

For detailed policies, please see: PharmacyChecker International Pharmacy Verification Program Policies.

If you have questions or comments about this issue, please email us.