belimumab + azathioprine

Belimumab + azathioprine is a **combination therapy** of two immunosuppressive medications used together, mainly studied for the **maintenance of remission in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis** (including granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis). **Belimumab** is a fully human IgG1λ monoclonal antibody that binds to and neutralizes B Lymphocyte Stimulator protein (BLyS, also known as BAFF), inhibiting B cell survival, including autoreactive B cells, and reducing differentiation of B cells into plasma cells. **Azathioprine** is a purine analog immunosuppressant that inhibits purine synthesis, thereby suppressing the proliferation and function of B and T lymphocytes. This combination aims to reduce autoimmune activity and maintain disease remission following induction therapy. Clinical trials have not shown a statistically significant reduction in relapse risk compared to standard therapies, but the combination has been studied for safety and feasibility in this context[1][3][5].