GlaxoSmithKline’s ‘Benlysta slows organ damage in SLE patients’

Organ damage progression in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can be reduced with Benlysta (belimumab), a new study has revealed.

According to research carried out over five years by the University of Manchester, the treatment can be effective in people with moderate-to-severe SLE regardless of their baseline level of damage.

Results from two pooled, open-label, continuation studies showed that more than 85 percent of patients treated with Benlysta – plus the standard of care – showed no signs of organ damage by years five and six.

SLE can cause irreversible organ damage that gets worse over time. As a result, scientists behind the study believe their latest findings are “very encouraging”.

Professor Ian Bruce of the University of Manchester said they “suggest that use of more targeted therapies may slow progression of irreversible long-term damage for lupus patients.”

He has now called for further research to be carried out in order to reinforce this possible conclusion.