Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Strategies

Questions and Answers

Which medication is typically NOT used in the treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)?

Biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

Corticosteroids

Antimalarial drugs

Aspirin (correct)

Corticosteroids have fewer side effects compared to NSAIDs.

False

Name one general strategy for managing symptoms of SLE.

Sun protection, balanced diet, stress reduction, exercise, or sleep.

_____ can be used to remove antibodies and other immune substances from the blood.

<p>Plasmapheresis</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following medications with their primary function:

<p>NSAIDs = Reduce pain and inflammation Corticosteroids = Treat active disease and reduce inflammation Antimalarial drugs = Suppress the immune system Biologic drugs = Reduce pain and tissue damage</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

General Treatment Strategies for SLE

Focus on symptom management to improve quality of life.
Key strategies include sun protection, balanced diet, stress reduction, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.

Medications for SLE

NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs alleviate pain and inflammation in joints, muscles, and tissues.
Corticosteroids:
- More effective than NSAIDs for reducing inflammation during active disease.
- Particularly useful when internal organs are affected.
- Associated with side effects such as weight gain, increased infection risk, hyperglycemia, and elevated blood pressure.
Biologic DMARDs:
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs targeting pain and inflammation more effectively than NSAIDs and corticosteroids.
- Higher risk of infections and potential organ damage.

Specialized SLE Treatments

Antimalarials:
- Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine help reduce fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and pleural inflammation.
- Work by suppressing the immune system.
Additional Agents:
- May be necessary as SLE progresses to prevent severe complications.
Immunosuppressants:
- Drugs such as steroids, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab used for kidney and nervous system involvement.
Plasmapheresis:
- Procedure to filter and remove antibodies and immune substances from blood, assisting in immune suppression.

Description

This quiz covers general treatment strategies for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), focusing on symptom management and quality of life improvements. Key medications and specialized treatments, including NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and biologic DMARDs, are also highlighted for effective disease management.