The Lupus Research Alliance congratulates GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) on the approval of belimumab (Benlysta®) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a self-injectable (subcutaneous) formulation for people with systemic lupus erythematosus being treated with standard therapy.
Belimumab is currently approved as a one-hour intravenous infusion given once every four weeks by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic. The new formulation allows patients to administer the drug to themselves as a once-weekly injection.
Lupus Research Alliance CEO and President Kenneth M. Farber, commented, “The new self-injectable belimumab may improve quality of life for many people with lupus. For people living with a disease that too often necessitates multiple medications and numerous regular doctor’s visits, the convenience and independence offered by being able to take one treatment in the privacy and comfort of your own home can mean a great deal.”
To learn more, read the press release issued by GSK.
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Media Contacts:
Margy Meislin
Email: mmeislin@lupusresearch.org
646-884-6025
