Immunosuppressive Medicines for Lupus

Methotrexate may help control skin rashes and joint pain.^{Reference 2} There also are reported benefits for controlling more severe lupus symptoms, such as inflammatory conditions of the kidneys and tissues around the heart and lungs. But there has been little research in these areas.

Other immunosuppressive medicines are used for more severe lupus. Most studies have been done using one of the immunosuppressives, along with corticosteroids, for lupus that is causing serious kidney problems (lupus nephritis). But they are also used to try to control other serious symptoms of lupus, such as inflammation around the heart and lungs. Azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate mofetil are the most commonly used medicines. They can take several weeks to reach full effectiveness, but they generally help decrease serious symptoms. As the immunosuppressive takes effect, the amount of corticosteroids can usually be reduced.^{Reference 2}

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