Products
Belimumab is commercially available as a powder for the preparation of an infusion solution concentrate. It was approved in the EU in 2011 and in many countries in 2012 (Benlysta). In 2018, a solution for subcutaneous injection was registered (autoinjector and prefilled syringe).
Structure and properties
Belimumab is a human IgG1λ monoclonal antibody with a molecular mass of approximately 147 kDa.
Effects
Belimumab (ATC L04AA26) has selective immunosuppressive properties. It binds to the soluble human B lymphocyte stimulator protein (BLyS), thereby shortening the lifespan of CD20+ B lymphocytes and plasma cells. Elevated levels of BLyS have been found in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune diseases. B cells play an important role in disease progression.
Indications
As adjunctive therapy in active, autoantibody-positive systemic lupus erythematosus.
Dosage
According to the drug label. The terminal half-life is approximately 19 days.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
To date, there are no known interactions with other drugs. No live vaccines should be administered in the 30 days prior to as well as during treatment.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include nausea, diarrhea, fever, infectious disease, leukopenia, hypersensitivity reactions, depression, insomnia, pain in the extremities, and infusion reactions.
