Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks various parts of the body. There is no cure, but several drugs can help manage the symptoms and prevent permanent damage. Here are some of the main drugs used to treat lupus: 1. **Anifrolumab**: Approved in 2021, it helps with arthritis and skin rashes by targeting type 1 interferons. It's given as a 30-minute infusion every 4 weeks. 2. **Azathioprine**: Reduces joint symptoms and helps with liver and kidney issues. It's taken as a daily pill and may take 12 weeks for full effect. 3. **Belimumab**: Blocks a specific protein that produces harmful antibodies. It can be self-injected weekly or given as an infusion. Full effects may take 12 weeks or longer. 4. **Steroids (e.g., Prednisone)**: Reduce inflammation and are used for severe symptoms affecting organs. They come in tablets, injections, and creams. 5. **Cyclosporine**: Helps with joint pain and lupus nephritis by blocking T cells. It's taken orally twice a day. 6. **Hydroxychloroquine**: Originally for malaria, it reduces pain, inflammation, and skin symptoms. It comes in pills and liquids. 7. **Leflunomide**: Reduces inflammation and is used when methotrexate is not effective. It's taken as a daily tablet. 8. **Methotrexate**: Reduces joint pain and swelling by blocking folic acid production. It's taken weekly as a pill or injection. 9. **Mycophenolate mofetil**: Treats lupus-related kidney disease by targeting a specific protein. It's taken twice a day by mouth. 10. **Rituximab**: Calms the immune system by targeting specific proteins on immune cells. It's given as an IV infusion. 11. **Voclosporin**: Approved in 2021 for lupus nephritis, it stops the immune system from attacking the kidneys. It's taken as a pill twice a day. Always consult your doctor for personalized medical advice and before starting any new treatment.