Willis Knighton Health is currently enrolling patients in the Select-SLE clinical study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib in patients with moderately to severely active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is an immune mediated disease associated with inflammation of multiple organ systems.

The study will assess adverse events and change in disease activity during the course of the study.  Willis Knighton is the only site in Louisiana chosen for the international study. Rheumatologist Thomas Presley III, MD, is principal investigator.

During the first part of the study, participants will have an equal chance of receiving either the investigational drug (a tablet taken by mouth) or placebo (something that looks like the investigational drug but has no effect on the body) on top of other lupus treatments participants are already receiving. The study involves up to 15 study visits and the duration is up to 52 weeks. After completion of the first part of the study, there is a long-term extension period in which all participants will receive the active investigation drug for an additional five study clinic visits and an additional duration of 52 weeks.

To qualify, volunteers must be at least 18 to 63 years old, have been diagnosed with lupus for at least six months and have been feeling lupus symptoms despite being consistently treated for lupus.   

If a patient qualifies and chooses to join the study, they will receive all study drugs and study related care at no cost. Participants may be compensated for travel and expenses.  For information, contact Sherry Stephens, WK Clinical Research Department, at 318-212-8181 or 318-540-9046.