Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy cells and tissues, causing inflammation, chronic pain, and long-term health challenges. One of the most complex autoimmune conditions is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly known as lupus. Patients with lupus often face symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, rashes, and organ complications. While traditional treatments like steroids and immunosuppressive medications have been the mainstay of care, advancements in biologic therapies now provide more targeted relief. Among these therapies, Benlysta® infusion treatment has emerged as a promising option for many lupus patients.
What Is Benlysta®?
Benlysta® (belimumab) is an FDA-approved biologic therapy designed specifically to treat lupus. Unlike conventional treatments that broadly suppress the immune system, Benlysta® targets a specific protein known as BLyS (B-lymphocyte stimulator). This protein plays a crucial role in the survival of B cells, which are part of the immune system and are often overactive in patients with lupus. By reducing the activity of these harmful B cells, Benlysta® helps decrease autoimmune responses without completely shutting down the body’s defenses.
The advantages of Benlysta Infusion Treatment
· Less Disease Activity – A large percentage of patients have fewer flares of the lupus disease and decreased intensity in symptoms.
· Reduced Steroid Dependence - The patient has the opportunity to reduce his dependence on steroids that have numerous long-term effects and implications.
· Enhanced quality of life - as it reduces the symptoms of fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation, Benlysta® will enable people to perform daily activities better.
· Organ Protection – It has been found out that Benlysta® provides protection to the organs by minimizing the severity of organ damage caused by lupus.
Infusion Process
Benlysta (R) is usually administered intravenously (IV) into a treatment center. Initially, a few doses are given in two-week intervals and then the interval is normally increased to four weeks. Each infusion process is approximately one hour in duration. During and after infusion, patients are closely observed to determine the occurrence of any possible side effect including fever, nausea, headache and infusion reaction.
Is Benlysta right For You?
Not all patients with lupus are suitable to Benlysta . Rituximab is usually prescribed to patients who exhibit active, autoantibody positive lupus and have not responded positively to the conventional treatments. Your rheumatologist will consider your condition, check your health records, and decide whether it is safe and effective to recommend Benlysta to you.
Life with Lupus the Modern Treatment Situation
Lupus is made up of many surprises, yet with the introduction of drugs such as Benlysta, the lupus experience leaves patients with a re-freshed feeling of addressing the symptoms successfully. When the team of rheumatology experts closely collaborates, patients can discuss some innovative solutions that can help restore a balance to the immune system and safeguard long-term health.
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