Key facts about Belimumab
What dosages is Belimumab available in?
Belimumab is available in strengths of 120 mg and 400 mg for IV use and 200mg/ml for subcutaneous use.
What is Belimumab used for?
Belimumab is a biologic and is used to treat the following:
- Add-on treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Add-on treatment for lupus nephritis (a condition that causes damage to your kidneys)
How does Belimumab work?
Belimumab is a biologic medication. It lowers inflammation (swelling) by attaching to certain proteins in your immune system, which stops them from turning on.
How do I take Belimumab?
Belimumab is typically dosed as follows:
Subcutaneous (SC) injection (for adults 18 years and older only):
- SLE: The typical dose is 200 mg injected under the skin once per week
- Lupus nephritis: The typical dose is 400 mg injected under the skin once per week for 4 doses. After 4 doses, the dose will be 200 mg once per week
Intravenous (IV) injection:
- SLE and lupus nephritis: Dosing will depend on your or your child’s weight. The dose will be prepared and administered by a healthcare provider. The typical dose is 10 mg/kg of body weight injected into your vein every 2 weeks for 3 doses. After 3 doses, the dose will be given every 4 weeks
Is it safe for me to take Belimumab?
Belimumab is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Belimumab Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Belimumab:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Common cold
- Bronchitis
- Difficulty sleeping
- Pain in arms or legs
- Depression
- Migraine
- Sore throat
Belimumab Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Belimumab. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Severe infection: confusion, fever, difficulty breathing, weakness, cough, sweating, chills, stomach pain, diarrhea, burning sensation when you urinate
- Serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): difficulty breathing, hives, itching, fast heartbeat, tightness in the throat, nausea, stomach pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, swelling in the face or tongue
- Depression and thoughts or behavior related to harming yourself
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Belimumab
- Formal drug interaction studies have not been performed with Belimumab. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking
Who makes Belimumab?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Belimumab safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Belimumab will harm your unborn baby. You and your doctor will have to decide if you should take Belimumab while you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant.There is a pregnancy exposure registry that evaluates pregnancy outcomes in women with lupus exposed to Belimumab during pregnancy. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to refer patients and pregnant women are encouraged to enroll themselves by calling 1-877-311-8972 or
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