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Understanding Benlysta: A Breakthrough in Lupus Care

benlysta infusionLupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people around the world, particularly women. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to widespread inflammation and damage to various organs. Over the years, treatments for lupus have largely focused on reducing symptoms through corticosteroids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressants. However, these therapies come with long-term side effects and often fail to control severe cases. The introduction of Benlysta marked a significant milestone in lupus management, offering new hope for patients who do not respond well to conventional treatments.

What Is Benlysta?

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication that was the first FDA-approved treatment developed specifically for lupus in more than 50 years. It targets the B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), a protein that plays a key role in the abnormal immune response seen in lupus. By inhibiting BLyS, Benlysta helps reduce the activity and survival of B cells, which are responsible for producing autoantibodies that attack the body’s own tissues.

Benlysta is primarily used in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and in recent years, its approval has expanded to include lupus nephritis, a serious kidney complication associated with lupus.

How Benlysta Works

Benlysta is a monoclonal antibody that targets and binds to the BLyS protein in the blood. This binding action prevents BLyS from stimulating B cells, thereby reducing their proliferation and activity. Since B cells are central to the autoimmune process in lupus, lowering their activity can help control the disease, prevent flare-ups, and reduce organ damage.

Forms of Benlysta Treatment

Benlysta can be administered in two forms:

1. Benlysta IV Infusion (Intravenous)

    • This form is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital.
    • The Benlysta IV infusion is usually given once every two weeks for the first three doses and then every four weeks thereafter.
    • Each infusion takes about an hour to complete.

2. Benlysta Injection (Subcutaneous)

    • This form allows patients to self-administer the drug at home.
    • It is injected once a week using a pre-filled syringe or autoinjector.

Both forms have proven effective, but the choice between Benlysta infusion and Benlysta injection depends on the patient’s preference, medical condition, and physician’s recommendation.

Benlysta Side Effects

As with all medications, Benlysta may cause side effects. Understanding these is crucial for patients considering or currently undergoing treatment.

Common Benlysta side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Headache
  • Injection site reactions (redness, swelling)

Serious side effects can include:

  • Infections (due to immune suppression)
  • Allergic reactions
  • Mood changes, including suicidal thoughts
  • Anaphylaxis (rare)

Patients should promptly report any signs of infection, unusual fatigue, or mood changes to their healthcare provider. Because Benlysta affects the immune system, it may also increase the risk of developing certain infections, including respiratory and urinary tract infections.

Effectiveness of Benlysta for Lupus

Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Benlysta in reducing lupus flares, improving disease activity scores, and lowering the need for corticosteroids. Patients who respond well to Benlysta often experience fewer hospitalizations and a better overall quality of life. For patients with Benlysta lupus nephritis, the medication has shown promise in preserving kidney function and delaying the progression of renal disease—a major cause of morbidity in lupus patients.

Who Can Use Benlysta?

Benlysta is typically prescribed to adults and children over the age of 5 who have:

  • Active autoantibody-positive systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  • Not responded adequately to standard lupus treatments

It is not recommended for people with severe active lupus affecting the central nervous system, nor is it approved for patients with discoid lupus or cutaneous lupus without systemic involvement.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctors before starting Benlysta, as the safety of the drug in these situations is not fully known.

Conclusion

Benlysta represents a powerful and targeted approach to managing lupus, a disease that has long been underserved in terms of innovative treatments. By reducing the activity of harmful B cells, Benlysta offers patients the potential for fewer flares, improved daily functioning, and a more predictable disease course. While Benlysta side effects should not be ignored, many patients tolerate the treatment well and find it to be a life-changing addition to their regimen.
Whether you’re considering Benlysta IV infusion in a clinic setting or opting for a weekly Benlysta injection at home, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with your healthcare provider. Understanding what Benlysta is, how it works, and whether it fits into your unique lupus treatment plan is the first step toward better health and stability in your lupus journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Benlysta used for?

Benlysta is used for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis in patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.

2. What are the common Benlysta side effects?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, diarrhea, injection site reactions, and increased risk of infections. More serious side effects may include mood changes and allergic reactions.

3. How is Benlysta administered?

Benlysta is available as a Benlysta IV infusion, given in clinics, and as a Benlysta injection, which patients can self-administer at home.

4. How quickly does Benlysta start working?

The full effects of Benlysta may take up to 3 to 6 months. However, some patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

5. Can I stop other lupus medications when starting Benlysta?

Benlysta is usually added to existing treatment regimens. Do not stop any lupus medications unless advised by your physician.

 

Discover how Benlysta can help manage lupus symptoms effectively. Visit our website https://americaninfusioncare.com/treatment-and-care/available-therapies/ and call us at (832) 510-7824 today for personalized support.