Belimumab
Generic name: belimumab [ be-LIM-ue-mab ]
Brand names: Benlysta, Benlysta Autoinjector
Dosage forms: intravenous powder for injection (120 mg; 400 mg); subcutaneous solution (200 mg/mL)
Drug class:Selective immunosuppressants
What is belimumab?
Belimumab is used together with other medicines to treat active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in adults and children at least 5 years old.
Beliumumab is also used to treat kidney problems (active lupus nephritis) in adults with SLE who are using other lupus medication.
Belimumab is not for use in people who have active SLE that affects the central nervous system (brain, nerves, and spinal cord).
Belimumab may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Some people have had serious or fatal allergic reactions to belimumab within hours or days after an injection. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms such as headache, anxiety, rash, itching, swelling in your face or throat, nausea, trouble breathing, and feeling dizzy or light-headed.
Belimumab affects your immune system. You may get infections more easily, even serious or fatal infections. Call your doctor if you have a fever, chills, cough with mucus, skin sores, warmth or redness under your skin, increased urination, or burning when you urinate.
Report any new or worsening mental health symptoms to your doctor, such as: depression, mood or behavior changes, trouble sleeping, or thoughts about hurting yourself or others.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use belimumab if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
an active or chronic infection;
depression or mental illness;
suicidal thoughts or actions;
cancer;
a drug allergy;
if you recently received a vaccine; or
if you are using cyclophosphamide, biologic medicines, or other monoclonal antibody medicines.
Belimumab may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Ask your doctor about your individual risk.
Some people have thoughts about suicide while using belimumab. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be aler...
