Lupus Treatment Options: Understanding Infusion Therapy and IVIG

When considering an infusion therapy plan, our medical staff reviews the type of lupus (such as systemic lupus erythematosus), the organs affected, and the degree of disease activity. We examine the patient’s medical history, current medications, laboratory test results—including inflammation markers, autoantibodies, and organ function—and any previous reactions to therapy.

At the Jean Walter Infusion Center, we offer a range of infusion therapies. These treatments are typically recommended for patients whose lupus is not well controlled with standard medications, or when there are specific concerns such as severe joint, kidney, or nervous system involvement.

IVIG is a specialized infusion therapy available at our center. It may be considered for lupus patients with severe or refractory disease, particularly when complications like low blood cell counts (cytopenias), neurological symptoms, or increased infection risk make standard immunosuppression less suitable. Our clinicians carefully assess the potential benefits and side effects of IVIG, especially in cases where rapid immune modulation is needed or when other treatments have not been effective.

Our physicians collaborate with each patient to select the most appropriate infusion therapy, taking into account personal preferences, lifestyle, co-existing medical conditions, and the potential risks and benefits of each option. We provide ongoing monitoring and support throughout the treatment process to ensure optimal outcomes and make adjustments as needed.

At Jean Walter Infusion Center, we offer specialized intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy for patients living with lupus, particularly those experiencing kidney (lupus nephritis) or other organ involvement. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, sometimes leading to serious complications affecting the kidneys and other organs.

IVIG is a blood-derived product made from pooled immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies from healthy donors. At our center, IVIG therapy is administered in a comfortable and supportive environment by a team experienced in infusion treatments and autoimmune disease care. IVIG works by helping to regulate the immune system, neutralize harmful autoantibodies, suppress inflammation, and protect tissues from immune-mediated damage. This can be especially beneficial for lupus patients who have not responded well to standard treatments or for those who cannot tolerate these medications due to side effects.

Clinical experience and research indicate that IVIG may help reduce disease activity or even induce remission in cases of lupus nephritis and other severe organ involvement. It can also be considered as a supportive option during disease flares or when other immunosuppressive therapies need to be minimized, such as during infections. Compared to some other immunosuppressants, IVIG often has a favorable side effect profile, which can be important for patients with increased risk factors or other medical complications.

IVIG is not typically a first-line treatment for lupus nephritis or major organ involvement, but it may be a valuable supplementary or rescue therapy for selected individuals. Our team works closely with patients, their rheumatologists, and nephrologists to ensure that each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs and health status. Continuous monitoring and collaboration with your specialty care team are an integral part of our approach to safe and effective IVIG therapy.

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a complex autoimmune disease that affects each person differently, so treatment plans must be highly individualized. Most patients with mild to moderate lupus are managed effectively with oral medications.

For patients whose lupus symptoms are more severe or who have not responded adequately to standard oral treatments, our infusion center offers advanced infusion therapy options. Infusion therapy involves delivering medication directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line, ensuring rapid and effective treatment. At Jean Walter Infusion Center, our experienced team administers medications. These therapies are typically reserved for patients whose lupus affects major organs or causes significant complications that cannot be controlled with oral medications alone.

Because infusion therapy requires careful monitoring and carries potential risks, it is not considered a first-line or routine treatment for all lupus patients.

Each patient’s treatment is thoroughly evaluated by our skilled healthcare professionals. We consider the severity of the disease, specific organ involvement, and how each individual has responded to other therapies before recommending infusion treatment. Our goal is to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care tailored to every patient’s unique needs.

Infusion therapy at Jean Walter Infusion Center involves administering medications directly into your bloodstream, ensuring rapid and precise delivery. For lupus patients, this often includes biologic drugs and immunosuppressive agents. These treatments are designed to control the abnormal immune response characteristic of lupus, reduce inflammation, and help prevent or limit organ damage.

We also provide IVIG therapy, which utilizes pooled antibodies from healthy donors. In lupus management, IVIG can help regulate an overactive immune system by blocking harmful autoantibodies and reducing inflammation, especially in cases where the disease does not respond to standard treatments or when complications—such as low platelet counts—arise.

Our experienced medical team works closely with each patient, providing personalized care plans and close supervision throughout your treatment. We are committed to maximizing therapeutic effectiveness while monitoring for side effects, ensuring your safety and comfort at every step. Our goal is to help you achieve better disease control, minimize flares, and improve your quality of life. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Edgewater, Rosedale, Columbia, Glen Burnie, North Baltimore, and Catonsville MD. Parkville MD, Middle River MD, Dundalk MD, Halethrope MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Hebbville MD, and Woodlawn MD.