Human Genome Sciences Inc. (HGSI) has finally got the U. S. approval for its lupus drug Benlysta and now they are shifting its complete focus on the marketing of this drug.

Though most of the experts are quite hopeful about its sale but the Rockville, Md. is keeping its expectations in control because they are aware about the challenges associated with the drug as its reimbursement is quite complicated and patients aren't expected to use it unless they fail prior therapies.

Chief Executive Thomas Watkins said, “Don't expect a ramp that is enormously high, but we're confident that the drug will gain traction in a steady fashion. We don't think it is terribly useful to give specific numbers for guidance until we know what is going on here”.

Sanford Bernstein analyst Geoffrey Porges believed that around 3,000 patients were expected to use this drug at the initial stage and it would gradually follow the adoption as insurers established their coverage practices.

The firm stated in a conference that two-thirds of potential Benlysta patients were covered by private insurers that would likely cover the drug immediately.

The company has decided to charge around $35,000 per year from each patient.