BASILIXIMAB

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Simulect

GENERIC NAME(S): BASILIXIMAB

Description: Basiliximab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the immune system from attacking the transplanted organ. It targets the IL-2 receptor and prevents the activation of lymphocytes.

Uses

Indications

Basiliximab is used to prevent organ rejection in people who have received a kidney transplant. It is usually taken along with other medications (e.g., cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to allow your new organ to function normally.

Contraindications

Should not be given to patients with known hypersensitivity reactions from Basiliximab and its components.

How to use basiliximab intravenous

Dosage: Reconstituted basiliximab should be given either as a bolus injection or diluted to a volume of 25 mL (10-mg vial) or 50 mL (20-mg vial) with normal saline or dextrose 5% and administered as an intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes.

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional.
It is usually given in 2 doses. The first dose is given within 2 hours before the transplant surgery, and the second dose is given 4 days after surgery.
This medication is used with other medications (e.g., cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to prevent rejection of transplanted organs.

Warnings

Only physicians experienced in immunosuppression therapy and management of organ transplantation patients should prescribe Basiliximab. Patients should be informed of the potential benefits and risk of taking this drug.
Severe acute (onset within 24 hours) hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis have been observed both on initial exposure to basiliximab and/or following re-exposure after several months. If a severe hypersensitivity reaction occurs, therapy with basiliximab should be permanently discontinued. Medications for the treatment of severe hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis should be available for immediate use.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

nausea
stomach pain
diarrhea
constipation
pain/redness at the injection site

The use of medications that affect the immune system may lead to increased risk of infection or certain types of cancer.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

fever
weakness
swollen glands
night sweats
unusual lumps
persistent cough/sore throat
sores around the mouth/genitals
pain with urination
vision changes
unexplained weight loss

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, unusually fast heartbeat, sneezing, trouble breathing.

Precautions

Precautions

Allergy: Before using basiliximab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to mouse proteins; or if you have any other allergies.
Medical History: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you had: certain infection (cytomegalovirus).
Previous treatment with basiliximab may increase your risk of a serious allergic reaction. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have received basiliximab in the past.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.
Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine or flu vaccine inhaled through the nose.
Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections.

Pregnancy Risk: Category B. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Breastfeeding: It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

None

Overdose & Brands

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., kidney function) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose: For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage: Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.

Brands

Available Brands

Simulect [ Novartis Healthcare ]