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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 💭
Independence, MO

I was crying, I have never knew that I had a erythemato. Can you tell me what is benlysta for please 🥺. I have allergies reactions and she is a new rheumatology doctor for lupus. She is put me on new medication benlysta and she had me to stopped taking the hydroxychloroquine because allergies reactions. Prednisone cause my blood pressure went up. Can you please explain why she put me on benlysta. I never had this medication.

October 12
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MyLupusTeam

First of all, it's completely okay to feel overwhelmed — a new diagnosis and a new medication at the same time is a lot to take in. Take a deep breath. 💙

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication approved to treat active lupus. It works by blocking a protein called BLyS, which helps certain immune cells (called B cells) Show Full Answer

First of all, it's completely okay to feel overwhelmed — a new diagnosis and a new medication at the same time is a lot to take in. Take a deep breath. 💙

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication approved to treat active lupus. It works by blocking a protein called BLyS, which helps certain immune cells (called B cells) survive. In lupus, these B cells can mistakenly attack the body, so blocking BLyS helps calm that activity down. Your doctor likely prescribed Benlysta because other medications weren't a good fit for you. Since hydroxychloroquine caused allergic reactions and Prednisone raised your blood pressure, Benlysta may be a safer alternative to help manage your lupus.

Benlysta can be given in two ways:

- IV infusion at a clinic (about one hour, every 2 weeks for the first 3 doses, then monthly)
- Self-injection at home under the skin of the abdomen or thigh Since you have a history of allergic reactions, it's really important to let your doctor know about all your allergies before starting. Some important things to be aware of with Benlysta:

- It can increase the risk of serious infections
- It may cause depression or mood changes — tell your doctor right away if you notice this
- Serious allergic reactions are possible, so watch for swelling, trouble breathing, or dizziness
- Live vaccines should be avoided 30 days before and during treatment

Many people don't feel the full benefit right away — it can take several months to notice improvement, so patience is key. Don't hesitate to ask your rheumatologist to walk you through everything step by step. You deserve to feel confident and informed about your treatment. You've got this! 💪

October 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member, Please read the message I replied to you on my story. It's important to receive and understand your diagnosis before starting any kind of treatment. Once you have confirmed whether or not you have systemic or discoid lupus, you can choose, along with your doctor, the medication that is best for you, with your allergic reactions taken into consideration.

October 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

What about CBD over-the- counter medication help lupus instead of benlysta.

October 12 (edited)

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