Real-World Global Study Affirms Efficacy of Intravenous Treatment with Benlysta for Lupus
Benlysta (belimumab) proves effective for improving lupus disease activity and is associated with lower use of glucocorticosteroids (GCS).
Data from 830 people with lupus in six countries that were taking Benlysta and participating in the OBSErve program were reviewed. The participants took the drug as part of their standard therapy and their clinical responses, disease activity and GCS use were noted. Nearly half of the group saw improved disease activity and 13% achieved near normal conditions. Those taking Benlysta while on GCSs also saw improvement at month six.
Results were broadly similar on a country level. However, Switzerland and the USA saw a shorter disease duration (45.3 and 55.7% < 5 years, respectively) compared with 23.1% in Canada and 39.7% in Argentina, and more patients from Switzerland had mild disease (43.4%) when they began Benlysta treatment compared with 2.8% in the USA and 10.5% in Argentina.
This large multi-country study further underscores intravenous (administered through the vein) Benlysta therapy as an effective treatment for lupus. Consult your physician before making changes to your medication. Learn more about medications used to treat lupus.