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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Benlysta

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Northeast , TN
May 11
 · 
Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

I didn’t experience any side effects either but I agree that everyone reactions to medications or lack of varies.

May 22
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have been taking Benlysta for about two and a half years. So far, I have had no side effects and it has slightly improved my kidney function. We all respond to medications differently. Some people have better experiences with the infusion and vice versa with the auto injection.

May 11 (edited)
A MyLupusTeam Member

Hi Kathy, I have been on Benlizta for about a year. I stopped Plaquenil when I started Benlizta. I was very glad to be off of the Plaquenil. I was taking the subcutaneous self-injection using a prefilled syringe once a week for a while and was doing well. My insurance stopped covering it so my doctor changed it to IV (that is monthly) and I am doing well with it. In my opinion it’s better: about one hour once a month works for me.
Everyone is different. You should try and see if it works for you. Good luck!

May 11
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member Is there anything else you would like to know about Benlysta?

May 11
MyLupusTeam

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication specifically approved by the FDA to treat active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis. It was the first targeted biological treatment approved specifically for lupus — which is kind of a big deal!

It works by blocking a protein called BLyS, which normally helps Show Full Answer

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication specifically approved by the FDA to treat active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis. It was the first targeted biological treatment approved specifically for lupus — which is kind of a big deal!

It works by blocking a protein called BLyS, which normally helps certain immune cells (B cells) survive. By reducing these overactive immune cells, Benlysta helps lower lupus disease activity. How is it taken?

Benlysta can be given in two ways:

- IV infusion — given at a medical facility, less frequent, larger dose
- Subcutaneous injection — self-administered at home with an autoinjector pen, taken more frequently

Both methods have a similar safety profile when taken as directed. How long does it take to work?

Patience is key here. It can take:

- A few weeks to 12 weeks to notice early effects
- 4 to 8 months to feel the full benefit

Some MyLupusTeam members noticed improvement around their 4th treatment, while others took longer. Sticking with it, as long as it's well tolerated, gives the best chance of seeing results. Important cautions:

- Never stop taking Benlysta without consulting a doctor first
- Stopping suddenly can trigger lupus flares
- If stopping is necessary (e.g., before surgery), a slow taper is generally recommended
- Always report new or worsening side effects to a healthcare provider

May 11

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Anyone on Benlysta, what side effects are you having?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Elkins, AR
April 21, 2015