There is no cure for lupus, so treatment is focused on mitigating and improving symptoms. Commonly, patients see a rheumatologist for their lupus-related care. Treatments aim to:

• Limit flares
• Treat symptoms
• Reduce organ damage and inflammation

Medications

Common medications to help treat symptoms of lupus include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs can help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.
  

• Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain.  
  

• Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. They are typically reserved for severe cases of lupus or when other treatments have not been effective.
  

• Antimalarial drugs: Antimalarial drugs can help reduce pain, inflammation, rashes, and flares.
  

• Biologics: Biologics may alleviate symptoms by helping the immune system work properly.  
  

• Additional medications might be necessary to address complications associated with lupus, such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, osteoporosis, blood clots, etc.

Kidney Transplant

• Individuals with lupus nephritis, a condition where lupus affects the kidneys, may require a kidney transplant if inflammation is severe and medications are unable to prevent significant kidney damage.