Is There a Cure for Lupus?

Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) is an autoimmune disease that can cause a wide variety of symptoms that tend to come in flares. Lupus can damage organs and joints and even affect a person’s mental health. While there is no cure for this condition, several treatments are available. They can help reduce symptoms and prevent further complications. 

Can lupus just “go away” on its own?

Like other autoimmune diseases, lupus does not go away on its own. However, it is possible for lupus to quiet down and cause no symptoms (called “remission”) for a period of time for a small percentage of people. 

What are the most effective treatments for lupus?

Lupus treatments are aimed at reducing symptoms of flares and preventing further damage. The goal is to help people with lupus achieve “low disease activity” or even “remission.” This means keeping symptoms to a minimum or eliminating them. It’s important because research suggests that spending more time in low disease activity or remission lessens the risk of damage to organs and joints. 

The best existing treatments for lupus work by reducing inflammation or modifying the immune response. They include:

• Antimalarial medications, such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine 

• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and methylprednisolone

• Immune-modulating medications, such as methotrexate, mycophenolate, and cyclophosphamide

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or meloxicam

Guidelines suggest that all patients should be treated with hydroxychloroquine, followed by prednisone. If these don’t control symptoms well enough, medications that act on the immune system (such as methotrexate) should be added on. Over-the-counter or prescription NSAIDs can help relieve discomfort related to flares. The goal is to limit NSAIDs and steroids because of the potential for side effects that are likely with long-term use.

The first medication to be approved specifically for treatment of lupus in recent decades is belimumab (Benlysta). It targets specific cells in the immune system and can be given as an injection or infusion into a vein. Belimumab is not recommended as first-line therapy but rather added on to existing treatments.

Because lupus is different in everyone, treatment will also be different. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for you. 

Do they really work?

Yes. Research shows that:

• Antimalarial medications can prevent lupus flares and organ damage.

• Belimumab can help reduce symptoms, the number of lupus flares, and the need for treatment with steroids.

• Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications, although there is some controversy regarding what dose is best.

What’s the best treatment for lupus nephritis (kidney disease)?

Kidney disease related to lupus — called lupus nephritis — affects up to 50% of people with lupus. Blood pressure medication is often prescribed, because lupus nephritis can lead to high blood pressure. Traditionally, people with lupus nephritis have been treated with one or more of the medications listed above. 

However, newer treatments for lupus nephritis are now available. Belimumab was approved in late 2020, and a new medication called voclosporin (Lupkynis) was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), making these the first drugs approved specifically for the treatment of lupus nephritis. Lupkynis is an oral medication (taken by mouth) to be used in combination with other lupus medications. 

What’s the best treatment for lupus rash?

Lupus-related skin rashes are common. If your skin is affected, it’s helpful to be aware of your triggers and avoid them. Common ones include medications, sunlight, and stress. 

The best treatment for lupus-related skin problems depends on the severity of lupus and location of the rash(es). If your lupus is limited to the skin, topical medication may be all you need. Steroid creams in various strengths are available by prescription. 

If lupus affects other parts of your body, or if your rash is widespread, one of the medications listed above may be a better option. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which treatment is best for you.

Is anyone working on a permanent cure for lupus?

Although there currently is no cure, research continues. Several promising medications that target the immune system are in clinical trials for treatment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) continue to support various lupus-related projects, and organizations such as the Lupus Research Alliance continue to fund research into all aspects of the disease. 

It’s unclear how far down the road a cure for lupus is. But it is clear that — now, more than ever — the medical community understands the disease better and treatments are improving. 

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Written by:

Mandy Armitage, MD

Mandy Armitage, MD, has combined clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.

Edited by:

Sophie Vergnaud, MD

Sophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.

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