Mechanism of Action of Benlysta

Benlysta^® (belimumab) is a medication used to treat symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or simply lupus). It belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. But how does Benlysta work?

 

Benlysta works by binding to and blocking the action of an antigen called soluble human B lymphocyte stimulator protein (BLyS), a substance that is important to the immune system. By blocking this substance, the immune system becomes suppressed. Since lupus is associated with the immune system inappropriately attacking the body, suppressing the immune system in this way can help reduce the symptoms of this condition.