How does Benlysta help lupus?
Benlysta helps lupus by reducing disease activity and flares and decreasing the need for steroid medications by up to 25%. Benlysta works for lupus by binding to a substance called BLyS, which helps B cells to survive for longer. When Benlysta is attached to BLyS, BLyS can no longer bind to and stimulate autoreactive B cells.
Autoreactive B cells are overactive B cells that attack normal tissue causing inflammation instead of just producing antibodies as normal B cells do. B cells are a type of lymphocyte, and an important part of our immune system and people with lupus develop too many autoreactive B cells.
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Drug information
- Benlysta Information for Consumers
- Benlysta prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Benlysta (detailed)
Related support groups
- Benlysta (10 questions, 33 members)