Benlysta

What is Benlysta?

Benlysta (belimumab) is biologic therapy that was approved by the FDA to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis. 

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 appropriately it can lead to severe complications. 

One of these complications 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. 

Benlysta 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

Infusion Duration

1 hour

Infusion Cycle

Every 2 weeks, then every 4 weeks

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.

  1. 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. 
  2. Your nurse will begin your infusion and check in on you periodically during your treatment. 
  3. After your infusion, your nurse will monitor you for 30 minutes to ensure you do not have any complications or reactions to the infusion therapy. 

Why patients choose Pure to receive their Benlysta infusion

At Pure Infusion Suites®, we create an unmatched patient experience, improve healthcare outcomes and lower the cost of care.

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