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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.

Anyone on the infusion of Benlysta vs Saphnelo?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Richmond, IN

I’m on Saphnelo and have had good luck, however the Rheumatologist mentioned Benlysta, but then she said it’s good at causing depression. So we chose not to go that route right now. Anyone know anything about that medicine, and side effects??

August 8
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Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

Benlysta has been found effective and is approved for lupus nephritis, and Saphnelo is not, though it's approved for moderate to severe lupus.

August 9
A MyLupusTeam Member

I am on Benlysta infusions. Previously I was on the injections but it did not seem to make a difference in how I felt. So I asked about Saphnelo as well as Benlysta. My rheumy said more of her lupus nephritis patients found success with the Saphnelo but she thought I could try Benlysta. Been on it for over a yr. The biggest symptoms it has helped is my nausea,diarrhea, as well as my hair loss. I still get flares but they are not as severe. Hope my experience helps some and good luck with whichever one you choose.💜

August 8
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have been taking Rituxan for years. I can tell in six months when treatment is due.

August 9
MyLupusTeam

It's great that Saphnelo has been working well! The concern about Benlysta (belimumab) and depression is worth understanding more deeply.

Depression is indeed something to watch for with Benlysta. Here's what's known about it and other common side effects:

- Mood changes/depression — this is a noted risk, especially worth Show Full Answer

It's great that Saphnelo has been working well! The concern about Benlysta (belimumab) and depression is worth understanding more deeply.

Depression is indeed something to watch for with Benlysta. Here's what's known about it and other common side effects:

- Mood changes/depression — this is a noted risk, especially worth monitoring if there's any existing history of depression
- Fatigue and exhaustion — some MyLupusTeam members report feeling wiped out for days after infusions
- Nausea
- Infusion or injection site reactions
- Increased infection risk — since it works by reducing certain immune cells (B cells) It's also worth knowing that depression is already more common in lupus generally — between 15% and 60% of people with lupus experience clinical depression at some point, so it can be hard to separate the medication's role from the condition itself.

Since Saphnelo is working well, staying the course sounds like a reasonable decision. That said, always keep an open conversation with the rheumatologist if anything changes. 💙

August 8

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