Introduction
Monoclonal antibody belimumab, sold as Benlysta, treats systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It reduces SLE symptoms and activity by targeting and inhibiting the B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS). Although belimumab is effective, it’s important to consider its side effects. Recent studies suggest that belimumab may cause clinical depression in some patients. Patients with a history of depression or mental health issues are more likely to experience this adverse event. During belimumab treatment, doctors should watch for depression and other psychiatric disorders. Patients must notify their doctor of any of these symptoms. This article intends to answer this question, “why does benlysta cause depression”
What is Benlysta?
Benlysta (belimumab) is a monoclonal antibody used to treat SLE, an autoimmune disease. This medication reduces SLE symptoms and activity by targeting and inhibiting BLyS. Benlysta is effective in treating SLE, but side effects should be considered. Benlysta may increase depression risk, especially in patients with a history of depression or mental health issues. Medical professionals closely monitor patients for depression or psychiatric disorders and provide treatment if needed.
How Does Benlysta Work?
Benlysta (belimumab) treats lupus and nephritis. Blocking the autoantibody-producing BLyS protein works. Autoantibodies mistakenly attack the body’s cells and tissues, causing inflammation and damage.
Benlysta blocks B-lymphocyte stimulator, reducing autoantibody production and lupus symptoms. Benlysta treats lupus and nephritis effectively by targeting this pathway.
Active SLE adults over 5 can receive Benlysta from the FDA. It’s used with immunosuppressive drugs and other standard treatments.
Benlysta may not suit everyone. Patients with severe Benlysta or component allergies should not use it. Benlysta may also increase depression and suicidal ideation, especially in patients with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders. Benlysta users should be monitored for depression and other mental health issues by healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, Benlysta reduces autoantibody production in lupus and nephritis by blocking B-lymphocyte stimulators. It is FDA-approved for use with standard therapy in certain systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Benlysta’s pros and cons must be considered and patients closely monitored for side effects.
Benlysta: Side Effects
B-lymphocyte stimulator blocker Benlysta treats active systemic lupus erythematosus well. While generally well-tolerated, side effects, including rare but serious ones, should be considered.
Benlysta users have reported serious infections like urinary tract infections. The medication can cause rash, itching, and breathing problems during or after infusion. Additionally, Benlysta users have developed skin cancer and lymphoma.
Benlysta is linked to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare but serious brain virus. PML is rare, but patients should be warned.
Benlysta can cause severe allergic reactions in addition to these physical side effects. Hives, swelling, and trouble breathing require immediate medical attention.
Benlysta may cause depression or suicidal thoughts, especially in patients with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders. Healthcare providers must closely monitor patients taking this medication for mental health issues.
These side effects are rare, but you should report any unusual symptoms to your doctor. They can advise and monitor your treatment for safety and well-being.
Treatment Options for Depression Caused by Benlysta
Benlysta treatment can cause depression, but there are ways to manage it. Patients must discuss mood or mental health changes with their doctor for advice and treatment. Depression treatment may include therapy, medication, or both, depending on its severity and impact. Psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people understand their emotions, develop coping strategies, and change negative thought patterns. Antidepressants may help relieve symptoms and restore emotional balance. Benlysta-induced depression patients must collaborate with their doctors to find the best treatment. Follow-up appointments and monitoring are also necessary to assess progress and adjust treatment.
Is There Any Treatment for Depression Caused by Benlysta?
Benlysta side effects can cause depression, but treatments exist. Talk to your doctor about the best approach.
Depression caused by Benlysta can be treated with psychotherapy. This therapy addresses depression’s causes, offers coping strategies, and improves mental health. For those who don’t like depression medication, psychotherapy can help.
TMS is another Benlysta-induced depression treatment. TMS stimulates brain nerve cells non-invasively with magnetic fields. It’s effective for depression, especially in non-responders to SSRIs and SNRIs.
If you’ve had bad SSRI and SNRI experiences, ask your doctor about alternatives. These options can be assessed based on your medical history and preferences.
Treating Benlysta-induced depression may take trial and error. Open communication and collaboration with your doctor are needed to find the best depression treatment.
What Other Treatments May Help Reduce the Risk or Severity of Depression from Benlysta Use?
Psychotherapy, TMS, and other treatments may reduce Benlysta-induced depression. SSRIs are one option. These antidepressants boost brain serotonin to improve mood and reduce depression. Benlysta-related depression may be treated with SSRIs like fluoxetine or sertraline.
CBT, which changes negative thoughts and behaviors, is another option. CBT can treat depression and may help Benlysta patients.
Alternative therapies like relaxation, meditation, and exercise can also reduce depression risk or severity. These methods can boost mental health and teach coping skills.
Discuss these treatments with your doctor to find the best one for you. They can assess the benefits and risks based on your needs and medical history to manage depression while treating lupus symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a systematic review and meta-analysis of Benlysta-related randomized controlled trials shed light on why does benlysta cause depression. The belimumab (Benlysta) group had higher rates of psychiatric disorders, including depression, than the placebo group. Benlysta use is also linked to higher all-cause mortality.
These results emphasize the need for doctors to closely monitor Benlysta patients, especially those with a history of depression or other psychiatric disorders. Healthcare providers must be aware of Benlysta risks and monitor patients.
Although the mechanisms linking Benlysta to depression are unknown, patients’ overall well-being must be considered when prescribing this medication. More research is needed to understand Benlysta and psychiatric disorders.
These findings emphasize the need for multidisciplinary Benlysta management. Healthcare professionals should work with mental health professionals to provide holistic care and optimize systemic lupus erythematosus treatment outcomes.
FAQs
How does lupus cause depression?
Depression does not directly result from lupus. However, some people may experience depression because of their chronic pain, fatigue, and emotional toll from living with a chronic illness like lupus. The physical and psychological difficulties brought on by having lupus are frequently blamed for depression in lupus patients.
How do you deal with lupus depression?
Treatment for lupus-related depression usually includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Consult a doctor for personalized advice on medication, counseling, support groups, and self-care like exercise and stress management.
How do I get my energy back with lupus?
Rest, a balanced diet, moderate exercise, stress management, and working with your healthcare team to address lupus symptoms and medications that may cause fatigue can boost energy levels.
