Adverse Events Associated with Belimumab Therapy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Purpose of Review Belimumab is generally well tolerated; however, several adverse events have been associated with the use of belimumab including infections, haematotoxicity, malignancies, infusion reactions, and psychiatric disorders. The purpose of the review is to appraise the adverse events associated with belimumab therapy in SLE which would then aid clinicians in making informed decisions regarding belimumab therapy in SLE patients. Recent Findings Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting multiple organs with high morbidity and mortality rates. Existing treatment options for SLE include chloroquine, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Belimumab is the first-ever targeted biologic product for the treatment of autoantibody-positive SLE patients who are on standard therapy. Belimumab is a monoclonal antibody that can effectively reduce SLE disease activity and disease flares by targeting the soluble form of B lymphocyte stimulators. Belimumab can decrease the production of autoantibodies and B cell survival. Belimumab therapy has a low incidence of adverse events and a favourable safety profile. Therefore, due to the effectiveness of belimumab in SLE, belimumab is recommended for SLE patients in addition to standard therapy.