Systemic Lupus Erythematosus has no cure as of now. However, the symptoms can be controlled and the progress can be slowed down. The treatment depends on the symptoms and since it has periods of exacerbations and quietude needs to be decided after a detailed discussion with your health provider. Normally NSAIDs, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs like to treat inflammation, pain, and fever. The side effects commonly reported are stomach bleed, Kidney troubles and increased risk of cardiac problems. Some of the antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine have also been found to be effective. Side effects are stomach upsets and rarely damage the retina.

Medicines in use for treatment of RA are NSAIDs and corticosteroid help in controlling swelling and inflammation. Each has their set of side reactions. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs are methotrexate, leflunomide hydroxychloro0quine and sulfasalazine. Side effects vary but have liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and severe lung infections. Another newer class of DMARDs- disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are abatacept, adalimumab, infliximab, anakinra, rituximab, certolizumab, tofacitinib, rituximab, and tocilizumab. These are biologic response modifiers that target a specific part of the immune system that triggers inflammation causing joint and tissue damage. The major concerns with these drugs are that they increased the risk of infections. The efficacy of these is increased when combined with DMARDs like methotrexate.