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Does Benlysta cause weight gain?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Jan 6, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Although weight gain is not listed as a side effect of Benlysta in the product information, a phase IV clinical study that analyzed side effect information from 14,100 people who had taken Benlysta reported weight gain as a side effect for 2.87% of them (404 people).

Weight gain is more likely in females aged 50 to 59 years who have been taking Benlysta for 1 - 6 months.

Weight gain can also be a side effect of other conditions, such as depression, and if you experience changes in your weight, you should talk with your doctor

References

Benlysta (belimumab) https://www.drugs.com/pro/benlysta.html

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