Systemic Lupus Erythematosus has no cure as of now. However, the symptoms can be controlled and the progress can be slowed down. The treatment depends on the symptoms and since it has periods of exacerbations and quietude needs to be decided after a detailed discussion with your health provider. Normally NSAIDs, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs like to treat inflammation, pain, and fever. The side effects commonly reported are stomach bleed, Kidney troubles and increased risk of cardiac problems.
Some of the antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine have also been found to be effective. Side effects are stomach upsets and rarely damage the retina. Corticosteroids like Prednisone are effective to reduce the inflammation. However, the more serious side effects of these medications preclude their long-term use. The commonly reported adverse effects of the above-mentioned medications are thinning of skin and bones, hypertension, diabetes and increased risks of infections. Since the disease is basically a hyperactive immune system, immune suppresses are always a choice. The common drugs are azathioprine, mycophenolate methotrexate. Side effects increase the risk of infection, liver damage, decreased fertility and increased risk of cancer. Belimumab is a recent drug which shows some promise and the only one that has FDA approval. Others in advanced stages of the trial are Rituximab. It has been used in the treatment of RA and is seen to be effective for SEL. Thalidomide, lenalidomide are other new drugs.
Medicines in use for treatment of RA are NSAIDs and corticosteroid help in controlling swelling and inflammation. Each has their set of side reactions. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs are methotrexate, leflunomide hydroxychloro0quine and sulfasalazine. Side effects vary but have liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and severe lung infections. Another newer class of DMARDs- disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are abatacept, adalimumab, infliximab, anakinra, rituximab, certolizumab, tofacitinib, rituximab, and tocilizumab. These are biologic response modifiers that target a specific part of the immune system that triggers inflammation causing joint and tissue damage. The major concerns with these drugs are that they increased the risk of infections. The efficacy of these is increased when combined with DMARDs like methotrexate.
Disclaimer:The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.
