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Lupus Treatments

Treatment

Treatment depends on symptoms.

Medication

Medications for mild symptoms:

  • Aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve joint pain
  • Acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol) to relieve joint pain
  • Hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine to relieve joint pain, fatigue, balding, and skin rashes (Note: Regular eye exams are advised while on these medications.)
  • Topical corticosteroids for skin rashes

Medications for severe symptoms include:

  • Oral and intravenous corticosteroids to control and limit inflammation in kidney, brain, lung, and heart, as well as in cases of severe anemia
  • Immunosuppressive drugs to suppress the body's autoimmune system
  • Mycophenolate, azathioprine, and cyclophosphamide for kidney disease or other life- or organ-threatening conditions
  • Rituximab for refractory disease

Transplantation and Dialysis

You may consider transplantation and dialysis if you have end-stage kidney failure .

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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