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BENLYSTA
(belimumab) for Injection, for Intravenous Use and Subcutaneous Use
Belimumab is a human IgG1λ monoclonal antibody specific for soluble human B lymphocyte stimulator protein (BLyS, also referred to as BAFF and TNFSF13B). Belimumab has a molecular weight of approximately 147 kDa. Belimumab is produced by recombinant DNA technology in a murine cell (NS0) expression system.
BENLYSTA (belimumab) for injection is a sterile, white to off-white, preservative-free, lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution and dilution prior to intravenous infusion. BENLYSTA for injection is supplied as 120 mg per vial and 400 mg per vial and requires reconstitution with Sterile Water for Injection, USP (1.5 mL and 4.8 mL, respectively) to obtain a concentration of 80 mg/mL [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. After reconstitution, each vial allows for withdrawal of 1.5 mL (120 mg) or 5 mL (400 mg). Each mL delivers 80 mg belimumab, citric acid (0.16 mg), polysorbate 80 (0.4 mg), sodium citrate (2.7 mg), and sucrose (80 mg), with a pH of 6.5.
The vial stoppers are not made with natural rubber latex.
BENLYSTA (belimumab) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to opalescent, and colorless to pale yellow solution for subcutaneous use. It is supplied in a 1-mL single-dose prefilled autoinjector with a fixed 27-gauge, half-inch needle or in a 1-mL single-dose prefilled syringe with a fixed 27-gauge, half-inch needle with a needle guard. Each 1 mL delivers 200 mg belimumab, L-arginine hydrochloride (5.3 mg), L-histidine (0.65 mg), L-histidine monohydrochloride (1.2 mg), polysorbate 80 (0.1 mg), and sodium chloride (6.7 mg), with a pH of 6.0.
The autoinjectors and prefilled syringes are not made with natural rubber latex.
BENLYSTA (belimumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with active, autoantibody-positive, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who are receiving standard therapy.
The efficacy of BENLYSTA has not been evaluated in patients with severe active lupus nephritis or severe active central nervous system lupus. BENLYSTA has not been studied in combination with other biologics or intravenous cyclophosphamide. Use of BENLYSTA is not recommended in these situations.
BENLYSTA may be administered as an intravenous infusion or as a subcutaneous injection. Vials are intended for intravenous use only (not for subcutaneous use) and autoinjectors and prefilled syringes are intended for subcutaneous use only (not for intravenous use).
BENLYSTA for intravenous use must be reconstituted and diluted prior to administration. Do not administer as an intravenous push or bolus.
The recommended intravenous dosage regimen is 10 mg/kg at 2-week intervals for the first 3 doses and at 4-week intervals thereafter. Reconstitute, dilute, and administer as an intravenous infusion over a period of 1 hour. The infusion rate may be slowed or interrupted if the patient develops an infusion reaction. The infusion must be discontinued immediately if the patient experiences a serious hypersensitivity reaction [see CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Prior to intravenous dosing with BENLYSTA, consider administering premedication for prophylaxis against infusion reactions and hypersensitivity reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS].
BENLYSTA for intravenous use is provided as a lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial and should be reconstituted and diluted by a healthcare professional using aseptic technique as follows. Use of a 21-to 25-gauge needle is recommended when piercing the vial stopper for reconstitution and dilution.
Reconstitution Instructions for Intravenous Use:
Dilution Instructions for Intravenous Use:
The recommended dosage is 200 mg once weekly given as a subcutaneous injection in the abdomen or thigh. Subcutaneous dosing is not based on weight.
If transitioning from intravenous therapy with BENLYSTA to subcutaneous administration, administer the first subcutaneous dose 1 to 4 weeks after the last intravenous dose.
For injection: 120 mg or 400 mg lyophilized powder in single-dose vials for reconstitution and dilution prior to intravenous infusion.
Injection: 200 mg/mL as a clear to opalescent, and colorless to pale yellow solution in a single- dose prefilled autoinjector or a single-dose prefilled glass syringe.
BENLYSTA (belimumab) for injection is a sterile, preservative-free, lyophilized powder for reconstitution and dilution prior to intravenous infusion provided in single-dose glass vials with a rubber stopper (not made with natural rubber latex) and a flip-off seal. Each 5-mL vial contains 120 mg of belimumab. Each 20-mL vial contains 400 mg of belimumab.
BENLYSTA vials are supplied as follows:
120 mg belimumab in a 5-mL single-dose vial (NDC 49401-101-01)
400 mg belimumab in a 20-mL single-dose vial (NDC 49401-102-01)
Refrigerate vials at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Store vials in the original carton until use to protect from light. Do not freeze. Avoid exposure to heat.
BENLYSTA (belimumab) injection is a clear to opalescent, and colorless to pale yellow solution for subcutaneous use. Each single-dose prefilled autoinjector or single-dose prefilled syringe is designed to deliver 200 mg of belimumab in 1 mL of solution and is supplied as follows:
200 mg/mL single-dose prefilled autoinjector with 27-gauge, half-inch needle attached (NDC 49401-088-01) in a carton of 4 (NDC 49401-088-35).
200 mg/mL single-dose prefilled glass syringe with 27-gauge, half-inch needle attached (NDC 49401-088-42) in a carton of 4 (NDC 49401-088-47).
Refrigerate prefilled autoinjectors and prefilled syringes at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Keep the product in the original carton to protect from light until the time of use. Do not freeze. Do not shake. Avoid exposure to heat.
Refrigerate prefilled autoinjectors and prefilled syringes at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Keep the product in the original carton to protect from light until the time of use. Do not freeze. Do not shake. Avoid exposure to heat.
BENLYSTA may be stored outside of the refrigerator up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 12 hours if protected from sunlight. Do not use and do not place back in refrigerator if left out for more than 12 hours.
Manufactured by: Human Genome Sciences, Inc. (a subsidiary of GlaxoSmithKline) Rockville, Maryland 20850. Revised: June 2018
The following have been observed with BENLYSTA and are discussed in detail in the Warnings and Precautions section:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared with rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The data described below reflect exposure to BENLYSTA administered intravenously plus standard therapy compared with placebo plus standard therapy in 2,133 patients in 3 controlled trials. Patients received BENLYSTA plus standard therapy at doses of 1 mg/kg (n = 673), 4 mg/kg (n = 111; Trial 1 only), or 10 mg/kg (n = 674), or placebo plus standard therapy (n = 675) intravenously over a 1-hour period on Days 0, 14, 28, and then every 28 days. In 2 of the trials (Trial 1 and Trial 3), treatment was given for 48 weeks, while in the other trial (Trial 2) treatment was given for 72 weeks [see Clinical Studies]. Because there was no apparent dose-related increase in the majority of adverse events observed with BENLYSTA, the safety data summarized below are presented for the 3 intravenous doses pooled, unless otherwise indicated; the adverse reaction table displays the results for the recommended intravenous dose of 10 mg/kg compared with placebo.
The population had a mean age of 39 years (range: 18 to 75), 94% were female, and 52% were white. In these trials, 93% of patients treated with BENLYSTA plus standard therapy reported an adverse event compared with 92% treated with placebo plus standard therapy.
The most common serious adverse events were serious infections (6.0% and 5.2% in the groups receiving BENLYSTA and placebo plus standard therapy, respectively), some of which were fatal [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The most commonly reported adverse events, occurring in ≥5% of patients in clinical trials were nausea, diarrhea, pyrexia, nasopharyngitis, bronchitis, insomnia, pain in extremity, depression, migraine, and pharyngitis.
The proportion of patients who discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction during the controlled clinical trials was 6.2% for patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy and 7.1% for patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy. The most common adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of treatment (≥1% of patients receiving BENLYSTA or placebo) were infusion reactions (1.6% BENLYSTA and 0.9% placebo), lupus nephritis (0.7% BENLYSTA and 1.2% placebo), and infections (0.7% BENLYSTA and 1.0% placebo).
Table 1 lists adverse reactions, regardless of causality, occurring in at least 3% of patients with SLE who received BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg plus standard therapy and at an incidence at least 1% greater than that observed with placebo plus standard therapy in the 3 controlled studies.
Table 1. Incidence of Adverse Reactions Occurring in at Least 3% of Patients Treated with BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg plus Standard Therapy and at Least 1% More Frequently than in Patients Receiving Placebo plus Standard Therapy
| Preferred Term | BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg + Standard Therapy (n = 674) % |
Placebo + Standard Therapy (n = 675) % |
| Nausea | 15 | 12 |
| Diarrhea | 12 | 9 |
| Pyrexia | 10 | 8 |
| Nasopharyngitis | 9 | 7 |
| Bronchitis | 9 | 5 |
| Insomnia | 7 | 5 |
| Pain in extremity | 6 | 4 |
| Depression | 5 | 4 |
| Migraine | 5 | 4 |
| Pharyngitis | 5 | 3 |
| Cystitis | 4 | 3 |
| Leukopenia | 4 | 2 |
| Gastroenteritis viral | 3 | 1 |
The data described below reflect exposure to BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously plus standard therapy compared with placebo plus standard therapy in 836 patients in a controlled trial (Trial 4). In addition to standard therapy, patients received BENLYSTA 200 mg (n = 556) or placebo (n = 280) (2:1 randomization) once weekly for up to 52 weeks [see Clinical Studies].
The overall population had a mean age of 39 years (range: 18 to 77), 94% were female, and 60% were white. In the trial, 81% of patients treated with BENLYSTA plus standard therapy reported an adverse event compared with 84% treated with placebo plus standard therapy. The proportion of patients who discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction during the controlled clinical trial was 7.2% of patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy and 8.9% of patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy.
The safety profile observed for BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously plus standard therapy was consistent with the known safety profile of BENLYSTA administered intravenously plus standard therapy, with the exception of local injection site reactions.
In the clinical study for BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously, the frequency of injection site reactions was 6.1% (34/556) for patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy and 2.5% (7/280) for patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy. These injection site reactions (most commonly pain, erythema, hematoma, pruritus, and induration) were mild to moderate in severity. The majority (94%) did not necessitate discontinuation of treatment.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of BENLYSTA. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
As with all therapeutic proteins, there is potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to belimumab with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other products may be misleading.
In Trials 2 and 3 (intravenous dosing), anti-belimumab antibodies were detected in 4 of 563 (0.7%) patients receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg and in 27 of 559 (4.8%) patients receiving BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg. The reported frequency for the group receiving 10 mg/kg may underestimate the actual frequency due to lower assay sensitivity in the presence of high drug concentrations. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in 3 patients receiving BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg. Three patients with anti-belimumab antibodies experienced mild infusion reactions of nausea, erythematous rash, pruritus, eyelid edema, headache, and dyspnea; none of the reactions was life-threatening. In Trial 4 (subcutaneous dosing), there was no formation of anti-belimumab antibodies in 556 patients receiving BENLYSTA 200 mg during the 52-week placebo-controlled period. The clinical relevance of the presence of anti-belimumab antibodies is not known.
The data reflect the percentage of patients whose test results were positive for antibodies to belimumab in specific assays.
Formal drug interaction studies have not been performed with BENLYSTA. In clinical trials of patients with SLE, BENLYSTA was administered concomitantly with other drugs, including corticosteroids, antimalarials, immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive agents (including azathioprine, methotrexate, and mycophenolate), angiotensin pathway antihypertensives, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without evidence of a clinically meaningful effect of these concomitant medications on belimumab pharmacokinetics. The effect of belimumab on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs has not been evaluated [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
There were more deaths reported with BENLYSTA than with placebo during the controlled period of the intravenous clinical trials. Out of 2,133 patients in 3 clinical trials, a total of 14 deaths occurred during the placebo-controlled, double-blind treatment periods: 3/675 (0.4%), 5/673 (0.7%), 0/111 (0%), and 6/674 (0.9%) deaths in the groups receiving placebo, BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg, BENLYSTA 4 mg/kg, and BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg, respectively. No single cause of death predominated. Etiologies included infection, cardiovascular disease, and suicide.
In the controlled trial of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously (N = 836), a total of 5 deaths occurred during the placebo-controlled, double-blind treatment period (0.7% [2/280] of patients receiving placebo and 0.5% [3/556] of patients receiving BENLYSTA). Infection was the most common cause of death.
Serious and sometimes fatal infections have been reported in patients receiving immunosuppressive agents, including BENLYSTA. Physicians should exercise caution when considering the use of BENLYSTA in patients with severe or chronic infections. Consider interrupting therapy with BENLYSTA in patients who develop a new infection while undergoing treatment with BENLYSTA and monitor these patients closely.
In the controlled clinical trials of BENLYSTA administered intravenously, the overall incidence of infections was 71% in patients treated with BENLYSTA compared with 67% in patients who received placebo. The most frequent infections (>5% of patients receiving BENLYSTA) were upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, and influenza. Serious infections occurred in 6.0% of patients treated with BENLYSTA and in 5.2% of patients who received placebo. The most frequent serious infections included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, and bronchitis. Infections leading to discontinuation of treatment occurred in 0.7% of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 1.0% of patients receiving placebo. Infections resulting in death occurred in 0.3% (4/1,458) of patients treated with BENLYSTA and in 0.1% (1/675) of patients receiving placebo.
In the controlled trial of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously (N = 836), the overall incidence of infections was 55% in patients treated with BENLYSTA compared with 57% in patients who received placebo (serious infections: 4.1% with BENLYSTA and 5.4% with placebo). The most commonly reported infections with BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously were similar to those reported with BENLYSTA administered intravenously.
Cases of JC virus-associated PML resulting in neurological deficits, including fatal cases, have been reported in patients with SLE receiving immunosuppressants, including BENLYSTA. Risk factors for PML include treatment with immunosuppressant therapies and impairment of immune function. Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset or deteriorating neurological signs and symptoms and consult with a neurologist or other appropriate specialist as clinically indicated. In patients with confirmed PML, consider stopping immunosuppressant therapy, including BENLYSTA.
Acute hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and death, have been reported in association with BENLYSTA. These events generally occurred within hours of the infusion; however, they may occur later. Non-acute hypersensitivity reactions including rash, nausea, fatigue, myalgia, headache, and facial edema, have been reported and typically occurred up to a week following the most recent infusion. Hypersensitivity, including serious reactions, has occurred in patients who have previously tolerated infusions of BENLYSTA. Limited data suggest that patients with a history of multiple drug allergies or significant hypersensitivity may be at increased risk.
In the controlled clinical trials of BENLYSTA administered intravenously, hypersensitivity reactions (occurring on the same day of infusion) were reported in 13% (191/1,458) of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 11% (76/675) of patients receiving placebo. Anaphylaxis was observed in 0.6% (9/1,458) of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 0.4% (3/675) of patients receiving placebo. Manifestations included hypotension, angioedema, urticaria or other rash, pruritus, and dyspnea. Due to overlap in signs and symptoms, it was not possible to distinguish between hypersensitivity reactions and infusion reactions in all cases [see Infusion Reactions]. Some patients (13%) received premedication, which may have mitigated or masked a hypersensitivity response; however, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether premedication diminishes the frequency or severity of hypersensitivity reactions.
BENLYSTA for intravenous use should be administered by healthcare providers prepared to manage anaphylaxis. In the event of a serious reaction, administration of BENLYSTA must be discontinued immediately and appropriate medical therapy administered. Patients should be monitored during and for an appropriate period of time after intravenous administration of BENLYSTA.
In the controlled trial of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously (N = 836), systemic hypersensitivity reactions were similar to those observed in the intravenous clinical trials.
Patients receiving BENLYSTA should be informed of the signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions and be instructed to seek immediate medical care should a reaction occur.
In the controlled clinical trials of BENLYSTA administered intravenously, adverse events associated with the infusion (occurring on the same day of the infusion) were reported in 17% (251/1,458) of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 15% (99/675) of patients receiving placebo. Serious infusion reactions (excluding hypersensitivity reactions) were reported in 0.5% of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 0.4% of patients receiving placebo and included bradycardia, myalgia, headache, rash, urticaria, and hypotension. The most common infusion reactions (≥3% of patients receiving BENLYSTA) were headache, nausea, and skin reactions. Due to overlap in signs and symptoms, it was not possible to distinguish between hypersensitivity reactions and infusion reactions in all cases [see Hypersensitivity Reactions, Including Anaphylaxis]. Some patients (13%) received premedication, which may have mitigated or masked an infusion reaction; however, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether premedication diminishes the frequency or severity of infusion reactions [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
BENLYSTA for intravenous use should be administered by healthcare providers prepared to manage infusion reactions. The infusion rate may be slowed or interrupted if the patient develops an infusion reaction. Healthcare providers should be aware of the risk of hypersensitivity reactions, which may present as infusion reactions, and monitor patients closely.
In the controlled clinical trials of BENLYSTA administered intravenously, psychiatric events were reported more frequently with BENLYSTA (16%) than with placebo (12%), related primarily to depression-related events (6.3% BENLYSTA and 4.7% placebo), insomnia (6.0% BENLYSTA and 5.3% placebo), and anxiety (3.9% BENLYSTA and 2.8% placebo). Serious psychiatric events were reported in 0.8% of patients receiving BENLYSTA (0.6% and 1.2% with 1 and 10 mg/kg, respectively) and 0.4% of patients receiving placebo. Serious depression was reported in 0.4% (6/1,458) of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 0.1% (1/675) of patients receiving placebo. Two suicides (0.1%) were reported in patients receiving BENLYSTA.
In the controlled trial of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously (N = 836), psychiatric events were reported in 6% of patients treated with BENLYSTA and in 11% of patients who received placebo. Depression-related events were reported in 2.7% of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 3.6% of patients receiving placebo. Serious psychiatric events were reported in 0.2% of patients receiving BENLYSTA and in no patients receiving placebo. There were no serious depression-related events or suicides reported in either group.
The majority of patients who reported serious depression or suicidal behavior had a history of depression or other serious psychiatric disorders and most were receiving psychoactive medications. It is unknown if treatment with BENLYSTA is associated with increased risk for these events.
Patients receiving BENLYSTA should be instructed to contact their healthcare provider if they experience new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mood changes.
The impact of treatment with BENLYSTA on the development of malignancies is not known.
In the controlled clinical trials of BENLYSTA administered intravenously, malignancies (including non-melanoma skin cancers) were reported in 0.4% of patients receiving BENLYSTA and 0.4% of patients receiving placebo. In the intravenous controlled clinical trials, malignancies, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers, were observed in 0.2% (3/1,458) and 0.3% (2/675) of patients receiving BENLYSTA and placebo, respectively. In the controlled clinical trial of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously (N = 836), the data were similar. The mechanism of action of BENLYSTA could increase the risk for the development of malignancies.
Live vaccines should not be given for 30 days before or concurrently with BENLYSTA as clinical safety has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving BENLYSTA or the effect of BENLYSTA on new immunizations. Because of its mechanism of action, BENLYSTA may interfere with the response to immunizations.
BENLYSTA has not been studied in combination with other biologic therapies, including B-cell targeted therapies, or intravenous cyclophosphamide. Therefore, use of BENLYSTA is not recommended in combination with biologic therapies or intravenous cyclophosphamide.
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use). It is important that the patient's overall health be assessed at each visit and any questions resulting from the patient's reading of the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use be discussed.
For patients receiving BENLYSTA, give patients the Medication Guide for BENLYSTA.
Advise patients that more patients receiving BENLYSTA in the main clinical trials died than did patients receiving placebo treatment [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that BENLYSTA may decrease their ability to fight infections. Ask patients if they have a history of chronic infections and if they are currently on any therapy for an infection [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Instruct patients to tell their healthcare provider if they develop signs or symptoms of an infection.
Advise patients to contact their healthcare professional if they experience new or worsening neurological symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, dizziness or loss of balance, difficulty talking or walking, or vision problems [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions and infusion reactions, including wheezing, difficulty breathing, angioedema, rash, hypotension, bradycardia, and headache. Instruct patients to immediately tell their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of an allergic reaction during or after the administration of BENLYSTA. Inform patients to tell their healthcare provider about possible delayed reactions that may include a combination of symptoms such as rash, nausea, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, and/or facial swelling that may occur after administration of BENLYSTA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider if they experience new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mood changes [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Immunizations Inform patients that they should not receive live vaccines while taking BENLYSTA. Response to
vaccinations could be impaired by BENLYSTA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Pregnancy Registry Inform patients that there is a pregnancy registry to monitor fetal outcomes of pregnant women
exposed to BENLYSTA [see Use in Specific Populations]. Pregnancy Inform female patients of reproductive potential that BENLYSTA may impact the immune
system in infants of treated mothers and to inform their prescriber of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations].
Long-term animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of belimumab.
Effects on male and female fertility have not been directly evaluated in animal studies.
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to BENLYSTA during pregnancy. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to register patients by calling 1-877-681-6296.
Available data on use of BENLYSTA in pregnant women, from observational studies, published case reports, and postmarketing surveillance, are insufficient to determine whether there is a drug-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with SLE (see Clinical Considerations). Monoclonal antibodies, such as belimumab, are actively transported across the placenta during the third trimester of pregnancy and may affect immune response in the in utero-exposed infant (see Clinical Considerations). In an animal combined embryo-fetal and pre-and post-natal development study with monkeys that received belimumab by intravenous administration, there was no evidence of fetal harm with exposures approximately 9 times (based on intravenous administration) and 20 times (based on subcutaneous administration) the exposure at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD). Belimumab-related findings in monkey fetuses and/or infants included reductions of B-cell counts, reductions in the density of lymphoid tissue B-lymphocytes in the spleen and lymph nodes, and altered IgG and IgM titers. The no-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) was not identified for these findings; however, they were reversible within 3 to 12 months after the drug was discontinued (see Data). Based on animal data and the mechanism of action of belimumab, the immune system in infants of treated mothers may be adversely affected. It is unknown, based on available data, whether immune effects, if identified, are reversible [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk:
Pregnant women with SLE are at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including worsening of the underlying disease, premature birth, miscarriage, and intrauterine growth restriction. Maternal lupus nephritis increases the risk of hypertension and preeclampsia/eclampsia. Passage of maternal autoantibodies across the placenta may result in adverse neonatal outcomes, including neonatal lupus and congenital heart block.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions:
Monoclonal antibodies are increasingly transported across the placenta as pregnancy progresses, with the largest amount transferred during the third trimester. Risks and benefits should be considered prior to administering live or live-attenuated vaccines to infants exposed to BENLYSTA in utero. Monitor an infant of a treated mother for B-cell reduction and other immune dysfunction [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Animal Data:
In a combined embryo-fetal and pre-and post-natal development study, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys received belimumab at intravenous doses of 0, 5, or 150 mg/kg every 2 weeks from confirmation of pregnancy at Gestation Days (GD) 20 to 22, throughout the period of organogenesis (up to approximately GD 50), and continuing to either the day of scheduled cesarean section (GD 150 [late third trimester]) or the day of parturition. There was no evidence of maternal toxicity, effects on embryofetal and infant survival, or structural abnormalities at exposure approximately 9 times the MRHD of 10 mg/kg intravenously or 20 times the MRHD of 200 mg subcutaneously (on an AUC basis with maternal animal intravenous doses up to 150 mg/kg). Belimumab-related findings in mothers included reductions of immature and mature B-cell counts and in fetuses and/or infants included reductions of immature and mature B-cell counts, reductions in the density of lymphoid tissue B-lymphocytes in the spleen and lymph nodes, reduced spleen weights, increased IgG titers, and reduced IgM titers. B-cell counts in infant monkeys exposed to belimumab in utero recovered by 3 months of age and in mothers after 1 year. IgG and IgM levels in infant monkeys recovered by 6 months of age and the reductions in B-lymphocytes in the lymph nodes and spleen were reversed by 1 year of age. Belimumab crossed the placenta, as it was detected in fetal cord blood and amniotic fluid on GD 150.
No information is available on the presence of belimumab in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. Belimumab was detected in the milk of cynomolgus monkeys; however, due to species-specific differences in lactation physiology, animal data may not predict drug levels in human milk. Maternal IgG is known to be present in human milk. If belimumab is transferred into human milk, the effects of local exposure in the gastrointestinal tract and potential limited systemic exposure in the infant to belimumab are unknown. The lack of clinical data during lactation precludes clear determination of the risk of BENLYSTA to an infant during lactation; therefore, the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for BENLYSTA, and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from BENLYSTA or from the underlying maternal condition.
Following an assessment of benefit versus risk, if prevention of pregnancy is warranted, females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after the final treatment.
Safety and effectiveness of BENLYSTA have not been established in children.
Clinical studies of BENLYSTA did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 or older to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Use with caution in elderly patients.
The safety and efficacy of BENLYSTA were evaluated in studies that included patients with SLE who had mild (creatinine clearance [CrCl] ≥60 and <90 mL/min), moderate (CrCl ≥30 and <60 mL/min), or severe (CrCl ≥15 and <30 mL/min) renal impairment. No dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with renal impairment.
No formal trials were conducted to examine the effects of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of belimumab. No dosage adjustment is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment.
In Trial 2 and Trial 3 (intravenous dosing), SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4) response rates were lower for black patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy relative to black patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy [see Clinical Studies]. In Trial 4 (subcutaneous dosing), SRI-4 response was slightly higher for black patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy relative to black patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy, but the treatment difference was not as large as that observed in the overall population and no definitive conclusion can be drawn from this subgroup analysis [see Clinical Studies]. Caution should be used when considering treatment with BENLYSTA in black/African-American patients.
There is limited experience with overdosage of belimumab. Adverse reactions reported in association with cases of overdose have been consistent with those expected for belimumab.
Two doses of up to 20 mg/kg have been given intravenously to humans with no increase in incidence or severity of adverse reactions compared with doses of 1, 4, or 10 mg/kg.
BENLYSTA is contraindicated in patients who have had anaphylaxis with belimumab.
BENLYSTA is a BLyS-specific inhibitor that blocks the binding of soluble BLyS, a B-cell survival factor, to its receptors on B cells. BENLYSTA does not bind B cells directly, but by binding BLyS, BENLYSTA inhibits the survival of B cells, including autoreactive B cells, and reduces the differentiation of B cells into immunoglobulin-producing plasma cells.
Treatment with BENLYSTA significantly reduced circulating CD19+, CD20+, naive, and activated B cells, and the SLE B-cell subset at Week 52. Reductions in naive and the SLE B-cell subset were observed as early as Week 8 and sustained to Week 52. Memory cells increased initially and slowly declined toward baseline levels by Week 52. The clinical relevance of these effects on B cells has not been established.
Treatment with BENLYSTA led to reductions in IgG and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies (anti-dsDNA) which were observed as early as Week 8 and sustained through Week 52. In patients with low complement levels at baseline, treatment led to increases in complement C3 and C4 as early as Week 12 and were sustained through Week 52. The clinical relevance of normalizing these biomarkers has not been definitively established.
The pharmacokinetic parameters displayed in Table 2 are based on population parameter estimates from 563 patients who received BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg.
Table 2. Population Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Patients with SLE after Intravenous Infusion of BENLYSTA 10 mg/kga
| Pharmacokinetic Parameter | Population Estimates (n = 563) |
| Peak concentration (Cmax, mcg/mL) | 313 |
| Area under the curve (AUC0-∞, day•mcg/mL) | 3,083 |
| Distribution half-life (t½, days) | 1.8 |
| Terminal half-life (t½, days) | 19.4 |
| Systemic clearance (CL, mL/day) | 215 |
| Volume of distribution (Vss, L) | 5 |
| a Intravenous infusions were administered at 2-week intervals for the first 3 doses and at 4-week intervals thereafter. | |
The pharmacokinetic parameters displayed in Table 3 are based on population parameter estimates from 661 subjects after subcutaneous administration of belimumab. The time to reach maximum serum concentration (Cmax) was 2.6 days (tmax) after administration at steady state. The bioavailability of belimumab was approximately 74%. With weekly subcutaneous administration there were minor fluctuations around the average concentration (Cavg 104 mcg/mL), with Cmin (97 mcg/mL) being only slightly below Cavg.
Table 3. Population Pharmacokinetic Parameters after Subcutaneous Administration of BENLYSTA
| Pharmacokinetic Parameter | Population Estimates (n = 661) |
| Peak concentration (Cmax, mcg/mL) | 108 |
| Area under the curve (AUC0-∞, day•mcg/mL) | 726 |
| Distribution half-life (t½, days) | 1.1 |
| Terminal half-life (t½, days) | 18.3 |
| Systemic clearance (CL, mL/day) | 204 |
| Volume of distribution (Vss, L) | 5 |
The following information is based on the population pharmacokinetic analyses of intravenous administration and subcutaneous administration of BENLYSTA.
Age did not significantly influence the pharmacokinetics of belimumab, where the majority of subjects were between 18 and 45 years (70% with intravenous dosing; 74% with subcutaneous dosing). No pharmacokinetic data are available in pediatric patients. Limited pharmacokinetic data are available for elderly patients as less than 2% of the subjects included in the pharmacokinetic analysis were 65 years or older [see Use In Specific Populations].
Gender did not significantly influence belimumab pharmacokinetics in the largely female trial population (94% with intravenous dosing; 85% with subcutaneous dosing).
Race did not significantly influence belimumab pharmacokinetics. The racial distribution with intravenous administration was 53% white, 16% Asian, 16% Alaska native/American Indian, and 14% black. The racial distribution with subcutaneous administration was 61% white, 20% Asian, 11% black, and 6% Alaska native/American Indian.
Body weight and body mass index (BMI) had no clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of belimumab administered subcutaneously. No dose adjustment is recommended based on weight or BMI for subcutaneous administration.
No formal trials were conducted to examine the effects of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of belimumab. BENLYSTA was studied in a limited number of patients with SLE who had mild (CrCl ≥60 and <90 mL/min), moderate (CrCl ≥30 and <60 mL/min), or severe (CrCl ≥15 and <30 mL/min) renal impairment: 770 patients with mild renal impairment, 261 patients with moderate renal impairment, and 14 patients with severe renal impairment received belimumab intravenously; 121 patients with mild renal impairment and 30 patients with moderate renal impairment received belimumab subcutaneously. [See Use In Specific Populations]
No formal trials were conducted to examine the effects of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of belimumab. Baseline ALT and AST levels did not significantly influence belimumab pharmacokinetics. [See Use In Specific Populations]
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted with BENLYSTA. Concomitant use of mycophenolate, azathioprine, methotrexate, antimalarials, NSAIDs, aspirin, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors did not significantly influence belimumab pharmacokinetics. Coadministration of steroids and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors resulted in an increase of systemic clearance of belimumab that was not clinically significant because the magnitude was well within the range of normal variability of clearance. The effect of belimumab on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs has not been evaluated.
The safety and effectiveness of BENLYSTA administered intravenously plus standard therapy were evaluated in 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving 2,133 patients with SLE according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria (Trials 1, 2, and 3). Patients with severe active lupus nephritis and severe active CNS lupus were excluded. Patients were on a stable standard therapy SLE treatment regimen comprising any of the following (alone or in combination): corticosteroids, antimalarials, NSAIDs, and immunosuppressives. Use of other biologics and intravenous cyclophosphamide were not permitted.
Trial 1 enrolled 449 patients and evaluated doses of 1, 4, and 10 mg/kg BENLYSTA plus standard therapy compared with placebo plus standard therapy over 52 weeks in patients with SLE. Patients had to have a Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SELENA-SLEDAI) score of ≥4 at baseline and a history of autoantibodies (anti-nuclear antibody [ANA] and/or anti-doublestranded DNA [anti-dsDNA]), but 28% of the population was autoantibody negative at baseline. The co-primary endpoints were percent change in SELENA-SLEDAI score at Week 24 and time to first flare over 52 weeks. No significant differences between any of the groups receiving BENLYSTA and the group receiving placebo were observed. Exploratory analysis of this trial identified a subgroup of patients (72%) who were autoantibody positive in whom BENLYSTA appeared to offer benefit. The results of this trial informed the design of Trials 2 and 3 and led to the selection of a target population and indication that is limited to autoantibody-positive SLE patients.
Trials 2 and 3 were randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in patients with SLE that were similar in design except duration -Trial 2 (N = 819) was 76 weeks' duration and Trial 3 (N = 865) was 52 weeks' duration. Patients had active SLE disease with a SELENA-SLEDAI score ≥6 and positive autoantibody test results at screening. Patients were excluded from the trial if they had ever received treatment with a B-cell-targeted agent or if they were currently receiving other biologic agents. Intravenous cyclophosphamide was not permitted within the previous 6 months or during the trial. Trial 2 was conducted primarily in North America and Europe. Trial 3 was conducted in South America, Eastern Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Baseline concomitant medications included corticosteroids (Trial 2: 76%, Trial 3: 96%), immunosuppressives (Trial 2: 56%, Trial 3: 42%; including azathioprine, methotrexate, and mycophenolate), and antimalarials (Trial 2: 63%, Trial 3: 67%). Most patients (>70%) were receiving 2 or more classes of SLE medications.
In Trial 2 and Trial 3, more than 50% of patients had 3 or more active organ systems involved at baseline. The most common active organ systems at baseline based on SELENA-SLEDAI were mucocutaneous (82% in both trials), immune (Trial 2: 74%, Trial 3: 85%), and musculoskeletal (Trial 2: 73%, Trial 3: 59%). Less than 16% of patients had some degree of renal activity and less than 7% of patients had activity in the vascular, cardio-respiratory, or CNS systems.
At screening, patients were stratified by disease severity based on their SELENA-SLEDAI score (≤9 vs. ≥10), proteinuria level (<2 g/24 h vs. ≥2 g/24 h), and race (African or Indigenous-American descent vs. other), and then randomly assigned to receive BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg, BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg, or placebo in addition to standard therapy. The patients were administered trial medication intravenously over a 1-hour period on Days 0, 14, 28, and then every 28 days for 48 weeks in Trial 3 and for 72 weeks in Trial 2.
The primary efficacy endpoint was a composite endpoint (SLE Responder Index-4 or SRI-4) that defined response as meeting each of the following criteria at Week 52 compared with baseline:
The SRI uses the SELENA-SLEDAI score as an objective measure of reduction in global disease activity; the BILAG index to ensure no significant worsening in any specific organ system; and the PGA to ensure that improvements in disease activity are not accompanied by worsening of the patient's condition overall.
In both Trials 2 and 3, the proportion of patients with SLE achieving an SRI-4 response, as defined for the primary endpoint, was significantly higher in the group receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg plus standard therapy than in the group receiving placebo plus standard therapy. The effect on the SRI-4 was not consistently significantly different for patients receiving BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg plus standard therapy relative to placebo plus standard therapy in both trials. The 1-mg/kg dose is not recommended. The trends in comparisons between the treatment groups for the rates of response for the individual components of the endpoint were generally consistent with that of the SRI-4 (Table 4). At Week 76 in Trial 2, the SRI-4 response rate with BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg was not significantly different from that of placebo (39% and 32%, respectively).
Table 4. Clinical Response Rate in Patients with SLE after 52 Weeks of Treatment
| Response | Trial 2 | Trial 3 | ||||
| Placebo + Standard Therapy (n = 275) |
BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg + Standard Therapyb (n = 271) |
BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg + Standard Therapy (n = 273) |
Placebo + Standard Therapy (n = 287) |
BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg + Standard Therapyb (n = 288) |
BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg + Standard Therapy (n = 290) |
|
| SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4)a | 34% | 41% (P = 0.104) |
43% (P = 0.021) |
44% | 51% (P = 0.013) |
58% (P <0.001) |
| Odds Ratio (95% CI) vs. placebo | 1.3 (0.9, 1.9) |
1.5 (1.1, 2.2) |
1.6 (1.1, 2.2) |
1.8 (1.3, 2.6) |
||
| Components of SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4) | ||||||
| Percent of patients with reduction in SELENASLEDAI ≥4 | 36% | 43% | 47% | 46% | 53% | 58% |
| Percent of patients with no worsening by BILAG index | 65% | 75% | 69% | 73% | 79% | 81% |
| Percent of patients with no worsening by PGA | 63% | 73% | 69% | 69% | 79% | 80% |
|
a
Patients dropping out of the trial early or experiencing certain increases in background
medication were considered as failures in these analyses. In both trials, a higher proportion of
placebo patients were considered as failures for this reason compared with the groups
receiving BENLYSTA. b The 1-mg/kg dose is not recommended. |
||||||
The reduction in disease activity seen in the SRI-4 was related primarily to improvement in the most commonly involved organ systems; namely, mucocutaneous, musculoskeletal, and immune.
Exploratory sub-group analyses of SRI-4 response rate in black patients (n = 148) were performed. The SRI-4 response rate in black patients in groups receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy was less than that in the group receiving placebo plus standard therapy (22/50 or 44% for placebo, 15/48 or 31% for BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg, and 18/50 or 36% for BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg). Although no definitive conclusion can be drawn from this subgroup analysis, caution should be used when considering treatment with BENLYSTA in black/African-American patients.
In Trial 2 and Trial 3, 46% and 69% of patients, respectively, were receiving prednisone at doses >7.5 mg/day at baseline. The proportion of patients able to reduce their average prednisone dose by at least 25% to ≤7.5 mg/day during Weeks 40 through 52 was not consistently significantly different for BENLYSTA plus standard therapy relative to placebo plus standard therapy in both trials. In Trial 2, 17% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg plus standard therapy and 19% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg plus standard therapy achieved this level of steroid reduction compared with 13% of patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy. In Trial 3, 19%, 21%, and 12% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg, BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg, and placebo, respectively, plus standard therapy achieved this level of steroid reduction.
The probability of experiencing a severe SLE flare, as defined by a modification of the SELENA Trial flare criteria, which excluded severe flares triggered only by an increase of the SELENASLEDAI score to >12, was calculated for both Trials 2 and 3. The proportion of patients having at least 1 severe flare over 52 weeks was not consistently significantly different for BENLYSTA plus standard therapy relative to placebo plus standard therapy in both trials. In Trial 2, 18% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg plus standard therapy and 16% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg plus standard therapy had a severe flare compared with 24% of patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy. In Trial 3, 14%, 18%, and 23% of patients receiving BENLYSTA 10 mg/kg, BENLYSTA 1 mg/kg and placebo, respectively, plus standard therapy had a severe flare.
The safety and effectiveness of BENLYSTA administered subcutaneously were evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 836 patients with SLE according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria (Trial 4). Patients with severe active lupus nephritis and severe active CNS lupus were excluded. The trial (2:1 randomization) evaluated BENLYSTA 200 mg once weekly plus standard therapy (n = 556) compared with placebo once weekly plus standard therapy (n = 280) over 52 weeks in patients with active SLE disease. Patients had to have a SELENA-SLEDAI score of ≥8 and positive autoantibody test (antinuclear antibody [ANA] and/or anti-double-stranded DNA [anti-dsDNA]) results at screening.
No significant differences in baseline patient characteristics were observed between treatment groups. In some countries, treatment with a B-cell-targeted agent was permitted if received a year or more prior to baseline; otherwise, treatment with a B-cell-targeted agent was not permitted. Patients were excluded from the trial if they were currently receiving other biologic agents. Anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy, intravenous cyclophosphamide, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), prednisone >100 mg/day, and plasmapheresis were not permitted within the previous 3 months or during the trial. The trial was conducted in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. Baseline concomitant medications included corticosteroids (86%), antimalarials (69%), and immunosuppressives (46%, including azathioprine, methotrexate, and mycophenolate). Most patients (approximately 80%) were receiving 2 or more classes of SLE medications.
More than 50% of patients had 3 or more active organ systems involved at baseline. The most common active organ systems at baseline based on SELENA-SLEDAI were mucocutaneous (88%), musculoskeletal (78%), and immunologic (76%). Overall, 12% of patients had some degree of renal activity and less than 15% of patients had activity in the vascular, cardiorespiratory, or CNS systems. Patients were stratified by disease severity based on their SELENA-SLEDAI score (≤9 vs. ≥10), complement level (C3 and/or C4 low vs. other), and race (black vs. other), and then randomly assigned to receive BENLYSTA 200 mg plus standard therapy or placebo once weekly plus standard therapy.
The primary efficacy endpoint was the SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4) at Week 52 as described in the intravenous trials. Secondary efficacy endpoints included time to first severe flare (as measured by the modified SELENA-SLEDAI SLE Flare Index) and the proportion of patients receiving prednisone >7.5 mg/day at baseline whose average prednisone dose had been reduced by ≥25% to ≤7.5 mg/day during Weeks 40 through 52.
The proportion of patients achieving an SRI-4 response was significantly higher in patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy compared with placebo plus standard therapy. The trends comparing the treatment groups with respect to the probability of response for the individual components of the endpoint were consistent with that of the SRI-4 (Table 5).
Table 5. Clinical Response Rate in Patients with SLE after 52 Weeks of Treatment
| Response | Placebo + Standard Therapy (n = 279) |
BENLYSTA + Standard Therapy (n = 554) |
| SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4)a | 48% | 61% P = 0.0006 |
| Odds Ratio (95% CI) vs. placebo | 1.7 (1.3, 2.3) | |
| Components of SLE Responder Index-4 (SRI-4) | ||
| Percent of patients with reduction in SELENA-SLEDAI ≥4 | 49% | 62% |
| Percent of patients with no worsening by BILAG index | 74% | 81% |
| Percent of patients with no worsening by PGA | 73% | 81% |
| a Patients dropping out of the trial early or experiencing certain increases in background medication were considered as failures in these analyses. A higher proportion of patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy were considered as failures for this reason compared with the group receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy. | ||
The reduction in disease activity seen in the SRI-4 was related primarily to improvement in the most commonly involved organ systems, namely, mucocutaneous, musculoskeletal, immunologic, and vascular.
The proportion of SRI-4 responders by visit through Week 52 is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Proportion (%) of SRI-4 Responders (+/-Standard Error) by Visita
 |
a The same patients may not have responded at each timepoint.
Exploratory sub-group analyses of SRI-4 response rate in black patients (n = 91) were performed. The SRI-4 response rate was slightly higher in black patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy (26/58 or 45%) compared with the group receiving placebo plus standard therapy (13/33 or 39%), but the treatment difference was not as large as that observed in the overall population and no definitive conclusion can be drawn from this subgroup analysis. Caution should be used when considering treatment with BENLYSTA in black/African-American patients.
At baseline, 60% of patients were receiving prednisone at doses >7.5 mg/day. Among these patients, 18% of patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy reduced their average prednisone dose by at least 25% to ≤7.5 mg/day during Weeks 40 through 52 compared with 12% of patients on placebo plus standard therapy; this difference was not statistically significant (OR = 1.65 [95% CI: 0.95, 2.84]).
The probability of experiencing a severe SLE flare, as measured by the modified SELENASLEDAI SLE Flare Index, excluding severe flares triggered only by an increase of the SELENASLEDAI score to >12, was calculated. The proportion of patients reporting at least 1 severe flare during the study was lower in patients treated with BENLYSTA plus standard therapy (11%) compared with those receiving placebo plus standard therapy (18%). Patients treated with BENLYSTA plus standard therapy had a 49% lower risk of experiencing at least 1 severe flare during the 52 weeks of observation, relative to the patients receiving placebo plus standard therapy (HR = 0.51 [95% CI: 0.35, 0.74]). Of the patients experiencing a severe flare, the median time to the first severe flare was delayed in patients receiving BENLYSTA plus standard therapy compared with placebo plus standard therapy (171 days vs. 118 days).
BENLYSTA
(ben-LIST-ah)
(belimumab) for injection, for intravenous use
BENLYSTA
(ben-LIST-ah)
(belimumab) injection, for subcutaneous use
What is the most important information I should know about BENLYSTA?
BENLYSTA can cause serious side effects. Some of these side effects may cause death. It is not known if BENLYSTA causes these serious side effects. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the symptoms listed below while receiving BENLYSTA
1. Infections. Symptoms of an infection can include:
2. Heart Problems. Symptoms of heart problems can include:
3. Allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions. Serious allergic reactions can happen on the day of, or in the days after, receiving BENLYSTA and may cause death. Your healthcare provider will watch you closely while you are receiving BENLYSTA given intravenously (infusion) and after your infusion for signs of a reaction. Allergic reactions can sometimes be delayed. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction following use of BENLYSTA:
4. Mental health problems and suicide. Symptoms of mental health problems can include:
What is BENLYSTA?
BENLYSTA is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) who are receiving other lupus medicines.
BENLYSTA contains belimumab which is in a group of medicines called monoclonal antibodies. Lupus is a disease of the immune system (the body system that fights infection). When given together with other medicines for lupus, BENLYSTA decreases lupus disease activity more than other lupus medicines alone.
Do not use BENLYSTA if you:
Before you receive BENLYSTA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-thecounter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of your medicines with you to show to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How will I receive BENLYSTA?
When administered intravenously (by vein)
When administered subcutaneously (under your skin)
What are the possible side effects of BENLYSTA?
BENLYSTA can cause serious side effects, including:
See “What is the most important information I should know about BENLYSTA?”
Cancer. BENLYSTA may reduce the activity of your immune system. Medicines that affect the immune system may increase your risk of certain cancers.
The most common side effects of BENLYSTA include:
These are not all the possible side effects of BENLYSTA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
How should I store BENLYSTA?
Keep BENLYSTA and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of BENLYSTA.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use BENLYSTA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give BENLYSTA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about BENLYSTA. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about BENLYSTA that is written for healthcare professionals.
What are the ingredients in BENLYSTA?
Active ingredient: belimumab.
Inactive ingredients (intravenous): citric acid, polysorbate 80, sodium citrate, sucrose.
Inactive Ingredients (subcutaneous): L-arginine hydrochloride, L-histidine, L-histidine monohydrochloride, polysorbate 80, sodium chloride.
For more information, go to www.BENLYSTA.com or call 1-877-423-6597 BENLYSTA is a registered trademark owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. The other brand listed is a trademark owned by or licensed to its respective owner and is not owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. The maker of this brand is not affiliated with and does not endorse the GSK group of companies or its products.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Instructions for Use
BENLYSTA
(ben-LIST-ah)
(belimumab) injection, for subcutaneous use
Prefilled Syringe
Read this Instructions for Use before you start to use BENLYSTA and each time you refill your prescription. There may be new information. You should also receive training from your healthcare provider on how to use the prefilled syringe the right way. If you do not follow these instructions the prefilled syringe may not work properly. BENLYSTA is for use under the skin only (subcutaneous).
Important Storage Information
Important Warnings
BENLYSTA Prefilled Syringe Parts
 |
After Use - Needle is covered by Needle Guard
 |
Supplies needed for the injection
 |
BENLYSTA Prefilled Syringe
 |
Alcohol Swab (not included)
Gauze Pad or Cotton Ball (not included)
 |
Sharps Container (not included)
1. Gather and check supplies
Gather supplies
Check expiration date
Figure A
 |
2. Prepare and inspect the BENLYSTA Prefilled Syringe
Allow to come to room temperature
Figure B
 |
Inspect BENLYSTA solution
Figure C
 |
3. Choose and clean the injection site
Choose the injection site
Figure D
 |
Clean the injection site
Figure E
|
4. Prepare for the injection
Remove the Needle Cap
Figure F
 |
5. Inject BENLYSTA
Insert the Needle
Figure G
 |
Complete the injection
Figure H
 |
Figure I
 |
6. Dispose of used prefilled syringe and inspect
Dispose of the used prefilled syringe
Throw away (dispose of) the used syringe and Needle Cap in a Sharps Container. See Figure J.
Figure J
 |
Inspect the injection site
Additional information
For more information about BENLYSTA, go to www.BENLYSTA.com or call 1-877-423-6597.
Instructions for Use
BENLYSTA
(ben-LIST-ah)
(belimumab) injection, for subcutaneous use Prefilled
Autoinjector
Read this Instructions for Use before you start to use BENLYSTA and each time you refill your prescription. There may be new information. You should also receive training from your healthcare provider on how to use the autoinjector the right way. If you do not follow these instructions the autoinjector may not work properly. BENLYSTA is for use under the skin only (subcutaneous).
Important Storage Information
Important Warnings
BENLYSTA Autoinjector Parts
 |
Supplies needed for the injection
 |
BENLYSTA Autoinjector
 |
Alcohol Swab (not included)
Gauze Pad or Cotton Ball (not included)
 |
Sharps Container (not included)
1. Gather and check supplies
Gather supplies
Check expiration date
Figure A
 |
2. Prepare and inspect the BENLYSTA Autoinjector
Allow to come to room temperature
Figure B
 |
Inspect BENLYSTA solution
Figure C
 |
3. Choose and clean the injection site
Choose the injection site
Figure D
 |
Clean the injection site
Figure E
 |
4. Prepare for the injection
Remove the Ring Cap
Figure F
 |
Position the autoinjector
Figure G
 |
5. Inject BENLYSTA
Start the injection
Figure H
 |
Figure I
 |
Complete the injection
You may hear a “second click” a few seconds before the Purple Indicator stops moving. See Figure J.
Figure J
 |
6. Dispose of used autoinjector and inspect
Dispose of the used autoinjector
Throw away (dispose of) the used autoinjector and Ring Cap in a Sharps Container. See Figure K.
Figure K
 |
Inspect the injection site
Additional information
For more information about BENLYSTA, go to www.BENLYSTA.com or call 1-877-423-6597.
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
