Overview

Medications are important for managing many systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. An array of drug therapies is now available, and this has increased the potential for effective treatment and excellent patient outcomes. Once a person has been diagnosed with lupus, the doctor will develop a treatment plan based on the person’s age, health, symptoms, and lifestyle. It should be reevaluated regularly and revised as necessary to ensure that it is as effective as possible. The goals for treating a patient with lupus include:

• reducing tissue inflammation caused by the disease
• suppressing immune system abnormalities that are responsible for tissue inflammation
• preventing flares and treating them when they do occur
• easing symptoms such as joint pain and fatigue
• minimizing complications of the disease.