Lupus Treatment:
What Are the Key Benefits and Risks?

Common Lupus Medications and Side Effects

1) NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

What they’re used for:
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) may help with mild joint pain, stiffness, muscle aches, and inflammation—especially during flares.

Common side effects to watch for:
Stomach irritation or ulcers, kidney strain, fluid retention, and sometimes cardiovascular risk (depending on your health history and dose).

Smart questions to ask your doctor:

• “How long should I take this?”

• “Should I take it with food?”

• “Do I need kidney monitoring or a stomach-protecting strategy?”

2) Antimalarials (Hydroxychloroquine / Plaquenil)

What they’re used for:
Hydroxychloroquine is one of the most commonly used lupus medications. It may help reduce flare frequency and support symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and skin issues.

Common side effects to watch for:
Nausea or stomach upset, skin changes, and—rarely—vision-related side effects. This is why your provider may recommend regular eye exams.

Smart questions to ask your doctor:

• “How long does it take to notice benefits?”

• “How often do I need eye exams?”

• “What symptoms would mean I should call you sooner?”

3) Corticosteroids (Prednisone and Others)

What they’re used for:

Steroids can reduce inflammation quickly and are often used when symptoms are moderate-to-severe or when organ involvement is suspected. Many plans aim to use the lowest effective dose and taper when appropriate.

Common side effects to watch for:
Weight gain, mood changes, increased blood pressure or blood sugar, sleep disruption, infection risk, and bone thinning—especially with higher doses or long-term use.

Smart questions to ask your doctor:

• “What is the plan to taper?”

• “How will we protect bone health?”

• “What should I do if I feel a flare while tapering?”

4) Immunosuppressants

What they’re used for:
Immunosuppressants may be used when lupus is more active or affecting organs (like kidneys or the nervous system). The goal is to reduce immune overactivity and prevent damage.

Common side effects to watch for:
Infection risk, nausea, fatigue, liver changes, lower blood counts, and other medication-specific effects. These medications typically require regular labs and close monitoring.

Smart questions to ask your doctor:

• “What labs do I need and how often?”

• “What symptoms suggest infection or a serious reaction?”

• “What results would mean we adjust the dose?”

5) Biologics

What they’re used for:
Biologics are targeted therapies that may be used when standard medications aren’t enough or when symptoms remain active. They’re typically given by injection or infusion depending on the medication.

Common side effects to watch for:
Infection risk and infusion/injection reactions are common concerns. Your provider will weigh benefits vs risks based on your history.

Smart questions to ask your doctor:

• “What benefits should I expect, and when?”

• “What should I do if I feel sick?”

• “How will we measure progress?”