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from eMedTV.comStudies suggest that the benefits of belimumab are modest. For instance, in one study, 34 percent of people given standard lupus treatment showed improvement, compared to 43 percent of people given belimumab plus standard lupus treatment.
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with belimumab include the following:
- This medication is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which is a slow injection into the vein. It is usually given every two weeks for the first three doses and then once a month.
- The injections are given by a healthcare provider in a healthcare setting.
- Each belimumab dose will be given slowly over a 60-minute period. You may be given medications beforehand to help reduce the chance of allergic reactions.
- For this drug to work properly, it must be used as prescribed. Belimumab will not work as well if you miss doses.
The dose of belimumab your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your weight
- How well you tolerate the medication.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
(Click Belimumab Dosage for more information.)
Drug Interactions
Belimumab may react with a few other medicines (see Drug Interactions With Belimumab).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD