Lupus is a chronic disease with no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment for lupus depends on the individuals symptoms and needs, and the goal is to prevent flares, treat symptoms when they happen, reduce organ damage and other problems, reduce swelling and pain, calm the immune system to prevent it from attacking the organs and tissues in the body, and reduce or prevent damage to the joints and organs. The medications most commonly used to control lupus include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, help reduce mild pain and swelling in joints and muscles.

• Immunosuppressants: Drugs that suppress the immune system may be helpful in serious cases of lupus. Examples include azathioprine, mycophenolate, methotrexate, cyclosporine, and leflunomide.

• Hydroxychloroquine: an antimalarial drug that is effective for treating lupus-related arthritis and rashes. It reduces flares by 50 percent and may also help prevent blood clots.

• Biologics: target specific parts of the immune system instead of affecting many areas of the immune system. Belimumab is FDA-approved for treating lupus.

In addition to medications, other treatments may be prescribed to manage specific lupus symptoms or other health conditions its causing, such as anemia, high blood pressure, or osteoporosis. Some people with lupus try alternative and complementary therapies to improve symptoms, but research has not definitively shown whether they help or treat lupus. Its important to work with a healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan, which may take some time to create and may need to be adjusted as symptoms and needs change.