The lupus community has long struggled with limited treatment options, especially for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), one of the most common forms of the condition. With only two biologics approved in the U.S., the 5 million people globally living with lupus face challenges in diagnosis and care. The variability in symptoms and therapy response further complicates the management of this autoimmune disease.
As a rheumatologist, I have witnessed the devastating impact SLE can have on a person’s life. Patients often endure difficult physical symptoms and prolonged diagnostic processes with limited treatment options. This led me to join Biogen, with the hope of bringing new therapies to the lupus community.
Lupus is a complex disease that affects multiple organ systems and disproportionately impacts young women, especially women of color. Biogen is working to advance potential therapies for SLE and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), two common forms of lupus. SLE can affect various organs, presenting as an “invisible” disease with symptoms like chronic fatigue, severe pain, and sun sensitivity. CLE, on the other hand, manifests in disfiguring skin manifestations and mucosal tissues, impacting quality of life.
Diagnosing lupus accurately and timely is challenging due to its heterogeneity. While there are biologic treatment options for SLE, their use is limited, and there are no specific options for CLE. Steroids are commonly used to manage flares, but long-term use can lead to damage and toxicities. There is a clear need for additional treatment options in the lupus community.
Biogen is focused on targeting the diverse immune pathways that drive lupus progression, with ongoing Phase 3 programs for potential therapies in SLE, CLE, and lupus nephritis. Drawing from their expertise in neuroimmunology and immunology, Biogen aims to redefine the treatment landscape for lupus and deliver innovative solutions for patients.
The commitment and resilience of the lupus community inspire Biogen to explore multiple pathways and develop therapies that can transform lives. By bridging experience and innovation, Biogen is dedicated to providing meaningful advancements for a community that has been underserved for too long. The goal is to create therapies that address the complexity of lupus and offer new hope for those living with this challenging disease.
For more information on Biogen’s efforts to make a difference for the lupus community, visit their website.
