1On July 27, 2022, global biopharmaceutical company GSK plc shared some exciting news via news release. The company’s therapy Benlysta (belimumab), designed for pediatric patients with lupus nephritis, is now FDA-approved. Now, Benlysta sits as the only FDA-approved treatment for pediatric lupus nephritis. It is also indicated for those with lupus aged 5+.
In the past, pediatric patients with lupus nephritis often had to manage their conditions using immunosuppressive drugs and/or corticosteroids. However, many patients still experienced issues such as a heightened risk of complications and hospitalizations. Therefore, providing additional therapeutic options – such as Benlysta – significantly fills an unmet need.
The Lupus Foundation of America explains that Benlysta is:
a human monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes and blocks the biological activity of B-lymphocyte stimulator, or BLyS, a naturally occurring protein which was discovered by scientists at Human Genome Sciences (HGS). Elevated levels of BLyS prolong the survival of B cells which can contribute to the production of autoantibodies [and] Benlysta can reduce autoantibody levels and help control autoimmune disease activity.
Side effects for Benlysta can include serious infections, anaphylaxis and other infusion-site reactions, rash, nausea, depression and suicidal ideation, fever, insomnia, pain in the extremities, diarrhea, muscle pain, and bronchitis. Learn more about Benlysta.
What is Lupus Nephritis (LN)?
Lupus nephritis is one of the complications arising from systemic lupus erythematosus (“lupus”). It occurs when autoantibodies affect the parts of the kidneys which filter out waste. As a result, the kidneys become inflamed and other health issues occur. Doctors do not know why some people develop LN and others do not. However, a mix of heredity and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Lupus is more common in females and those of Asian or African descent. An estimated 50% of adults with lupus, and 80% of children with lupus, will eventually develop LN. Symptoms can (but do not always) include:
- Joint pain or swelling
- Muscle pain
- Fever with no known cause
- Dark or foamy urine
- Hematuria (blood in the urine)
- Proteinuria (excess protein in the urine)
- High blood pressure
- Red butterfly-shaped rash on the face
- Kidney failure