Uses
Basiliximab is used to prevent organ rejection in people who have received a kidney transplant. It is usually taken along with other medications (such as cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to allow your new organ to function normally. Basiliximab is an immunosuppressant drug known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by slowing down your body's defense system (immune system) to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney after surgery (acute rejection).
How To Use
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.
Dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
This medication is used with other medications (such as cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Take all medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, or pain/redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
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:
- cough/sore throat that doesn't go away
- fever
- weakness
- swollen glands
- night sweats
- unusual lumps
- 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
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using basiliximab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- certain infection (cytomegalovirus)
Previous treatment with basiliximab may increase your risk of a serious allergic reaction (see Side Effects section). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have received basiliximab in the past. If you must stop using this drug due to an allergic reaction, do not use the drug again. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
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.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Women who may become pregnant should use effective birth control before beginning treatment with this drug, during use, and for 4 months after finishing treatment. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.
Medical Alert
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
