Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

2 medicines

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissue, treated with hydroxychloroquine and, in severe disease, immunosuppressants.

Imuran

Azathioprine

25/50mg

Imuran is a autoimmune care medication containing Azathioprine, available as 25/50mg tablets.

from $0.85 / tablet View

Plaquenil

Hydroxychloroquine

200/400mg

Plaquenil is a antiparasitics medication containing Hydroxychloroquine, available as 200/400mg tablets.

from $0.53 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, with flares affecting joints, skin, kidneys, the heart, or the nervous system.
  • Flares alternate with periods of relative calm; SLE is significantly more common in women of childbearing age.
  • Sun exposure, infections, stress, and hormonal changes are well-recognised flare triggers.
  • Hydroxychloroquine is the cornerstone treatment, used continuously; azathioprine is added for more severe or refractory disease.

What SLE is

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue throughout the body. Flares can affect almost any organ, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, and nervous system, and are separated by periods of relative calm. It is significantly more common in women of childbearing age.

What triggers flares

No single trigger causes SLE, but sun exposure, infections, stress, and hormonal changes are well-recognised provocateurs. The goals of long-term management are to prevent flares, protect organs, and keep the immune response calibrated without suppressing it entirely.

How SLE is treated

Hydroxychloroquine, an antimalarial within the broader antiparasitic medicines, is a cornerstone treatment for SLE: it reduces flare frequency, lowers the risk of organ damage, and is taken continuously rather than only during attacks. For more severe or refractory disease, azathioprine, an immunosuppressant within the autoimmune care category, helps control inflammation and allows lower doses of corticosteroids over time.

When to seek medical attention

If you develop chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, blood in the urine, or a severe headache during a flare, seek medical attention promptly, as these can signal serious organ involvement that needs urgent assessment.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.