New Lupus SLE Clinical Practice Guidelines Released

by Kristy Kibler

New SLE Clinical Practice Guidelines Bring Fresh Clarity and Hope to Lupus Care

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has released new clinical practice guidelines for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). This is an exciting development grounded in the latest research and designed to guide both adult and pediatric care.
Original source: ACR Press Release, “New Lupus SLE Clinical Practice Guidelines Released.”

These new recommendations, presented at ACR Convergence 2025, offer expanded explanations, clearer treatment pathways, and a strong evidence base that reflects years of scientific progress.

What the Guidelines Recommend

These updated guidelines focus on improving long-term health, reducing disease activity, and minimizing treatment side effects. Key recommendations include:

  • Strong support for universal use of hydroxychloroquine for nearly all people with SLE
  • A goal of reducing steroid exposure to less than 5 mg of prednisone a day
  • Earlier use of conventional and biologic immunosuppressive medications
  • A commitment to shared decision making, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique and should guide treatment choices
  • Guidance for treating both overall disease and organ specific involvement
  • Recommendations for monitoring disease activity and preventing complications

These guidelines were created using the internationally recognized GRADE methodology, which ensures transparency and balance in evaluating scientific evidence.

Why This Matters for People Living with Lupus

For our Colorado lupus community, this update carries real meaning. These guidelines help ensure that people with lupus receive care that reflects the best knowledge available today.

Here is why this update is especially important for patients:

1. More Consistent and Reliable Care

Clear guidelines help doctors across the state and country provide more consistent treatment. This means fewer uncertainties and more confidence when discussing next steps with your healthcare team.

2. Earlier and More Targeted Treatment

The emphasis on early use of immunosuppressive and biologic therapies can help slow or even prevent organ damage. Early action often leads to better long term outcomes, and these recommendations support that approach.

3. Safer Treatment With Fewer Side Effects

The strong guidance to lower steroid doses is important. Long term steroid use can cause major health issues. These guidelines support safer care plans that protect overall wellbeing.

4. A True Partnership With Your Care Team

The focus on shared decision making honors what patients know about their own bodies. Your voice, your goals, and your lived experience are essential parts of any treatment plan.

5. Hope for a Healthier Future

Evidence based guidance brings us one step closer to care that reduces flares, protects organs, and improves quality of life. Each update in the scientific community builds momentum toward better treatments and, with continued dedication, a cure.

These new guidelines help strengthen the path forward for people and families touched by lupus. Every step in understanding lupus is a step toward brighter days ahead.