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 is Benlysta?

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

  • Lupus nephritis

What Does Benlysta Treat?

  • Fever

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Nose and throat inflammation

  • Pain in arms or legs

  • Insomnia

  • Stomach pain

  • Bronchitis

  • Depression

  • Migraine

  • Click here for additional side effects

Possible Side Effects

Infusion Duration

1 hour

Infusion Cycle

Every 2 weeks, then every 4 weeks

  1. Remember to drink plenty of water so you are hydrated for your appointment.

  2. Your nurse will review your medical history, check your vitals, and discuss any questions and potential side effects of your infusion therapy.

  3. Your nurse will begin your infusion and monitor you closely during your treatment.

  4. You’ll continue to be monitored for 30 minutes post your infusion to ensure there are no reactions to the therapy.

IMPORTANT: Remember to let us know of any changes in your insurance prior to your visit to ensure that we are still an in-network provider for your infusion therapy.​

What to Expect During Your Infusion:

Why Patients Choose Flourish for Infusion Treatments

At Flourish, our mission is providing patients with expert medical care and a relaxing spa-like infusion experience. Data suggests that care at ambulatory infusion centers costs over 50% less than the same services offered at hospitals. We also increase affordability with co-pay assistance and additional financial aid programs to our patients. Our clinical model ensures a 3:1 patient to nurse ratio. Popular entertainment streaming options, high speed WiFi access, relaxing recliners, and delicious food and beverage selections pamper patients and provide them with an experience they can enjoy for hours.