Sjögren's Syndrome
Autoimmune disease treatment, specialty medications, and patient support
Key Takeaways
- Sjögren's is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting moisture-producing glands
- No biologic is specifically FDA-approved for Sjögren's, but several are used off-label
- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is widely used and covered by most insurance
- Emerging clinical trials are evaluating biologics specifically for Sjögren's
What Is Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's moisture-producing (exocrine) glands — primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands. This causes the hallmark symptoms of dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia). Sjögren's can occur alone (primary Sjögren's) or alongside other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus (secondary Sjögren's).
Sjögren's can also cause systemic manifestations including fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, peripheral neuropathy, and in rare cases, lymphoma.
Treatment Approach for Sjögren's
Symptom Management
Artificial tears, lubricating eye drops, saliva substitutes, and pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac) to stimulate moisture production.
Hydroxychloroquine
Plaquenil is widely used for systemic Sjögren's manifestations — fatigue, joint pain, and skin symptoms. Covered by most insurance; eye monitoring required.
Immunosuppressants
Methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate may be used for systemic manifestations. Rituximab (off-label) is sometimes used for severe systemic Sjögren's.
Emerging Biologics
Iscalimab (anti-CD40L) and other agents are in clinical trials specifically for Sjögren's. Watch for FDA approvals in this space over the coming years.
💊 BiologicHealthPlus Supports Sjögren's Patients
We handle insurance and prior authorization for all specialty medications used in Sjögren's syndrome — including off-label biologics when prescribed by your rheumatologist.
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