Benlysta (belimumab)

• Systemic lupus erythematosus: adults and children 5 years and older with active systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus, an immune disease that can affect many organs) who are getting standard lupus treatment.
• Lupus nephritis: adults and children 5 years and older with active lupus nephritis (kidney disease caused by lupus) who are getting standard treatment.

A prescription is required. Your prescriber decides whether Benlysta is right for you.

IV infusion, given by a healthcare professional. When your prescriber agrees it can be given at home, we send a skilled nurse from an accredited nursing agency to give it.

Injection under the skin, given by a healthcare professional, or you or a caregiver after training. A nurse can show you or a caregiver how to give it.

Storage: Keep Benlysta autoinjectors and prefilled syringes in the refrigerator in the original carton to protect them from light. Do not freeze or shake them; if needed, they can be out of the refrigerator (up to 86°F, out of sunlight) for up to 12 hours.

Before the first dose, your prescriber may ask for:

• a check for depression and thoughts of suicide

Read the Medication Guide and the full Benlysta prescribing information, and ask your prescriber or our pharmacists about side effects. Our pharmacists are on call 24 hours a day.

Health plans often require prior authorization for Benlysta. Our intake team checks your coverage and works with your prescriber’s office on the paperwork before your first delivery.

The manufacturer runs a support program, Together with Benlysta, that may help eligible patients with costs and access.

Offices can call (844) 671-2600 or fax a referral to (844) 671-2601. Use the Rheumatology Referral Form (PDF).

The manufacturer also publishes Starting a patient on Benlysta: ordering guide, sample letters and copay enrollment for practices.