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Belimumab IV Uses and How to Use


IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

Table of Contents

Generic Name: BELIMUMAB - INJECTION
Pronounced: (be-LIM-ue-mab)

Belimumab IV Uses

This medication is used to treat a certain type of lupus, systemic lupus erythematosus, in patients who are receiving other lupus medicines. It works by binding to a protein (found in high levels in patients with active lupus) in the blood and limiting the activity of the protein. It helps decrease the symptoms of lupus. Belimumab is a type of medication called a monoclonal antibody.

How To Use Belimumab IV

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using belimumab and each time you get a treatment. Discuss the risks and benefits of belimumab treatment. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It should be injected slowly over 1 hour. The first 3 doses are given every 2 weeks. After the third dose, it is usually given every 4 weeks, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your weight.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications for you to take before the start of your treatment to help prevent serious side effects.

This medication may cause very serious reactions during or after treatment. These reactions occur more often during the first and second treatments. Your doctor will monitor you closely. If you have a reaction, your treatment will be temporarily stopped. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if any of these effects occur: headache, slow heartbeat, muscle pain, dizziness/fainting, nausea, or rash/itching.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.


CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised March 2011 Copyright(c) 2011 First DataBank, Inc.