27 Dec Benlysta
Benlysta
What is Benlysta?
Benlysta (belimumab) is biologic therapy that was approved by the FDA to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis. Read more to learn about Benlysta infusion, cost, side effects, uses and benefits.
Lupus & B-Cells
Lupus is a debilitating autoimmune disease that can cause severe inflammation in almost every organ and joint in the body. It is not typical for lupus to affect all organ systems at once, but if the disease is not managed it can lead to severe problems.
One of these problems is when the body attacks the kidneys, leading to lupus nephritis. This causes high levels of protein and blood in the urine and may lead to kidney failure.
It is thought that those with lupus have autoreactive B-cells (a type of white blood cell) that stay in the body longer than usual, and attach to healthy tissues. Most B-cells produce antibodies that fight off germs and infection, but autoreactive B-cells cause tissues to become inflamed and may be a cause of lupus.
How does Benlysta work?
Benlysta infusion works by blocking B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), the protein that stimulates growth of autoreactive B-cells. By preventing the growth and stimulation of B-cells, and inhibiting their survival, Benlysta helps turn off the body’s autoimmune response, reducing inflammation and lupus symptoms.
What does Benlysta Treat?
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Lupus nephritis
Side Effects
- Fever
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Nose and throat inflammation
- Pain in arms or legs
- Insomnia
- Stomach pain
- Bronchitis
- Depression
- Migraine
Click here for additional side effects
Benlysta Infusion Duration
1 hour
Benlysta Infusion Cycle
Every 2 weeks, then every 4 weeks
Benlysta Cost
Benlysta cost can vary depending on several factors including insurance status and insurance provider. At Pure Infusion Suites, we are committed to lowering costs and improving access for our patients. Our team of patient access coordinators are here to set you up for success.
We work with a growing list of insurance providers, and are always working to ensure claims/authorizations are processed efficiently. All patients are enrolled in co-pay assistance programs to assist in covering costs of treatment.
Additionally, data from an Artemetrx report shows average costs at an outpatient hospital facility are more than 3X higher than costs at an ambulatory infusion center. That means we save our patients’ money, while offering a more comfortable experience!
What to Expect During Your Infusion
Before your infusion, it is important to drink plenty of water and come to your appointment hydrated. Additionally, you must alert us as soon as possible to any changes in your insurance to ensure that we are still an in-network provider for your infusion therapy.
- Your dedicated Infusion nurse will check your vitals and review your medical history to check for improvements or potential side effects of your infusion therapy.
- Your nurse will begin your infusion and check in on you periodically during your treatment.
- After your infusion, your nurse will monitor you to ensure you do not have any complications or reactions to the infusion therapy.
Why patients choose Pure to receive their Benlysta infusion
Safe & Private Suites
- Comfortable, private rooms with a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere
- 55” TVs with Netflix, Wifi, drinks, snacks, meals & more
Expert Medical Staff
- Certified FNPs & infusion nurses on-site
- Insurance pre-authorizations & re-authorizations
- Patient lab work
Patient Assistance
- Co-pay assistance & other financial aid programs
- Flexible scheduling
- Easy & convenient parking
Patient Stories
PURE has found a way to put patient care First!!! With knowledgeable empathetic experienced staff to Private rooms with the ambiance and amenities of a 5 star Hotel!!!
A diagnoses requiring infusions is scary. I feel optimistic that my treatment requiring infusions in an environment like PURE Will smooth the road to a successful outcome for my overall health. Feeling Grateful………
When I arrived, I was introduced to Holly who was going to be giving me my infusion. Holly was great to work with. She was professional, informative, and approachable.
Finally, the suites were fully decked out with whatever you may need. Drinks, snacks, wifi, TV. The chairs were amazingly comfy.
I'm a huge fan and they have another loyal customer!
Additionally, the staff is way more helpful in my opinion in working with your insurance and communicating the progress of everything with you than other locations.
If you get IV infusions of any sort, check this place out. I'd bet money you will never go back to a hospital or other facility.
From a customer service standpoint they are amazing as well. The girl at the front desk was so welcoming and made me feel comfortable from the start and helped me sign up for the copay program for my medication.
They provide a pillow, plush blanket, a TV with streaming options, snacks, drinks and even buy you lunch. I joked with Natalie that it felt like a "white glove" or "first class experience."
I think providing those options adds to the patient experience in the sense that you feel comfortable and therefore less nervous. Natalie took great care of me during and especially after my infusion to make sure I was truly good to go before leaving their care.
Thank you all for a great experience. If I have to sit through infusions, at least it was with style, class, and real care!
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