Saphnelo vs. Benlysta for Lupus: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Saphnelo

(anifrolumab)

Benlysta

(belimumab)

Summary for Saphnelo

Prescription only

Saphnelo (anifrolumab or anifrolumab-fnia) is a newly approved injectable medication used for moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is a condition where your immune system attacks your own body. It's given as an infusion through the veins (intravenous, or IV) by a healthcare provider.

Indications for Saphnelo

Add-on therapy for moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Pros and Cons for Saphnelo

Pros

Works well to improve moderate-to-severe SLE
Given only once per month

Cons

Needs to be given by a healthcare provider
Can't be used alone; only approved as an add-on to standard therapy
Brand-name only, which can be expensive

Common Side Effects for Saphnelo

Upper respiratory infection (34%)
Bronchitis (11%)
Infusion-related reactions (headache, dizziness, nausea; 9%)
Herpes zoster infection (shingles; 6%)
Cough (5%)

Warnings for Saphnelo

Serious infections
Serious allergic reactions

Summary for Benlysta

Prescription only

Benlysta (belimumab) is a biologic medication used to treat autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis in adults and children. You can receive it in two ways: as a once-weekly injection under your skin or as an IV infusion once per month from a healthcare professional. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and fever.

Indications for Benlysta

Add-on treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in people ages 5 years and older
Add-on treatment for lupus nephritis (kidney damage related to SLE) in people ages 5 years and older

Pros and Cons for Benlysta

Pros

Targets a specific part of the immune system
Available as an IV infusion or self-injection
Safe for both children and adults

Cons

Must use with other medications
Raises the risk of infections
Can take several months to see benefits

Common Side Effects for Benlysta

Nausea (15%)
Diarrhea (12%)
Fever (10%)
Common cold (9%)
Bronchitis (9%)
Difficulty sleeping (7%)
Pain in arms or legs (6%)
Depression (5%)
Migraine (5%)
Sore throat (5%)

Note: Side effects listed were reported by people who received Benlysta (belimumab) IV infusion for SLE. People who used the SC injection had similar side effects.