A new experimental drug promises hope for lupus patients by blocking the protein that causes the body to attack itself and reducing the dependency upon steroids. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can be life threatening, affecting the connective tissues in the joints, lungs, heart and kidneys, and is difficult to treat. The drug of choice has been, also in my case, the corticosteroid, Prednisone.
Benlysta has shown to be effective in late stage Lupus. If the current Phase 3 trial proves as positive as the prior, the drug manufacturer will apply for FDA approval in 2010. This will be the first new drug for the treatment of lupus in about 50 years.
For more information:
Her News: Experimental Lupus Drug Shows Some Promise: Report
Business Week: Benlysta Effective in Some Lupus Sufferers
USAToday: Lupus drug Benlysta shows promise, company says
Lupus Foundation of America: Steroids