Belimumab for Lupus Nephritis in BC Now Approved Under BC Renal Formulary
Belimumab Approved for Lupus Nephritis:
A New Hope for Patients
Belimumab for lupus nephritis in BC is now publicly funded under the BC Renal Glomerulonephritis (GN) Formulary as of May 2025. This marks a significant step forward in improving access to care for individuals living with lupus nephritis. Patients in British Columbia now have access to this advanced treatment through a unique renal care model that supports timely and equitable care.
Understanding Belimumab
A Breakthrough in Lupus Nephritis Treatment
Belimumab, marketed as Benlysta, is a prescription medication used to treat individuals aged 5 and older with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or active lupus nephritis (LN) who are also receiving other lupus treatments. While Belimumab has been used for systemic lupus for several years, its recent approval for lupus nephritis under the BC Renal system allows more patients to access this life-changing therapy.
Accessing Belimumab in British Columbia
Funding for belimumab (Benlysta) will be provided on a restricted basis to individuals with lupus nephritis who meet criteria as outlined in the application forms below and the drug is prescribed by a Health Authority Renal Program registered nephrologist.
To put a patient on belimumab (Benlysta), nephrologists must do the following:
- ensure the patient is registered in PROMIS
- submit the appropriate application form to the BC Renal
For more information on accessing Belimumab (Benlysta) in BC for the indication of Lupus Nephritis, click here.
BC Renal is a model unique in Canada and internationally, designed to improve kidney patient quality of life and outcomes, and to support sound fiscal management and system sustainability.
What This Means for Patients Living with Lupus in BC
The approval of Belimumab for lupus nephritis in BC is a meaningful advancement for the lupus community. Lupus nephritis can cause long-term kidney damage, and access to biologic treatments like Belimumab offers patients an opportunity to better manage their condition and reduce the risk of progression to kidney failure.
By publicly funding this therapy through BC Renal, patients and their care teams have more tools at their disposal to improve outcomes and maintain quality of life. This decision also reflects the continued work of advocates, healthcare providers, and patients who have long called for improved access to treatments for chronic autoimmune diseases like lupus.
The Role of BC Renal and GN Formulary
The GN network & registry aims to improve our understanding and treatment of glomerulonephritis. Glomerulonephritis (GN) is a group of kidney diseases that, while relatively rare, represent the second most common cause of end-stage renal disease in Canada. These diseases appear to be increasing in prevalence, and disproportionately affect younger Canadians. GN patients experience substantial comorbidity over time and incur high costs to the health system. As part of its overall mandate to manage and improve care for kidney patients across the province, the BC Renal Network is developing a GN network with the goals of improving both our understanding of GN and treatment for this subset of kidney patients.
Explore Your Treatment Options
With the recent approval of Belimumab for lupus nephritis, now is the perfect time to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. Understanding the benefits and potential of this new therapy can help you make informed decisions about your health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor to explore how Belimumab might fit into your treatment plan and improve your quality of life.