When can I stop receiving Benlysta?

You can stop receiving Benlysta (belimumab) when your doctor says it is safe and recommended for you to do so. Benlysta is a type of drug called a monoclonal antibody. Your doctor or nurse will infuse it into your vein to treat systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of the autoimmune disease lupus.

Typically, your doctor will recommend that you receive one injection every two weeks for your first three doses, and then one injection every four weeks after that. How long you need to stay on the medication may depend on how severe your SLE is and how you respond to the drug. Some people may stay on Benlysta indefinitely. Other people may be able to take the drug for a few months during flares of their SLE, and then stop the medication.

Your doctor will monitor you closely when you are receiving Benlysta injections so he or she can help you decide what is best.