Benlysta

GlaxoSmithKline | Benlysta (Medication)

Desc:

Benlysta is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) who are receiving other lupus medicines. It is not known if Benlysta is safe and effective in people with severe active lupus nephritis or severe active central nervous system lupus, and it has not been studied in combination with other biologics or intravenous cyclophosphamide. Use of Benlysta is not recommended in these situations.

The recommended dosage regimen is 10 mg/kg at 2-week intervals for the first 3 doses and at 4-week intervals thereafter. ...

Side Effect:

The most commonly-reported adverse reactionsare nausea, diarrhea, pyrexia, nasopharyngitis, bronchitis, insomnia, pain in extremity, depression, migraine, and pharyngitis.

The most common adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of treatment are infusion reactions, lupus nephritis, and infections.

Mental health problems, including suicide - symptoms can include thoughts of suicide or dying, attempting to commit suicide, thoughts of hurting yourself or others, trouble sleeping, new or worsening anxiety or depression, acting on dangerous impulses, and other unusual changes in your behavior or mood.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. ...

Precaution:

Physicians should exercise caution when considering the use of Benlysta in patients with chronic infections. Patients receiving any therapy for chronic infection should not begin therapy with Benlysta.

Women of childbearing age should use adequate birth control measures while taking Benlysta and for at least 4 months after their final treatment with Benlysta.

Tell your doctor if you have recently received a vaccination, or think you may need one. If you are receiving Benlysta, you should not receive live vaccines; You have an infection or have infections that keep coming back. You should not receive this medication if you have an infection unless your healthcare provider tells you to.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended to use this medicine without your doctor's advice. ...