Basiliximab (By injection)
ba-si-LIX-i-mab
Prevents organ rejection after a kidney transplant.
Drug classes
Immune Suppressant (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Basiliximab belongs to a group of medicines known as immunosuppressive agents. It is used to lower the body’s natural immunity in patients who receive kidney transplants.
When a patient receives a kidney transplant, the body’s white blood cells will try to get rid of (reject) the transplanted kidney. Basiliximab works by preventing the white blood cells from getting rid of the transplanted kidney. The effect of basiliximab on the white blood cells may also reduce the body’s ability to fight infections.
Basiliximab is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to basiliximab.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blood in your urine or stools
Change in how much or how often you urinate, pain or burning when you urinate
Chest pain, fast or uneven heartbeat
Confusion, or numbness and tingling in your hands, feet, or lips
Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or stomach pain
Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, pale skin or lips
Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, joint pain, or body aches
Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat
Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet, rapid weight gain
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Dizziness, headache, tremors, muscle twitching, weakness, or pain
Problems getting an erection
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Simulect
There may be other brand names for this medicine.