Basiliximab-injection

Basiliximab injection comes as a powder to be mixed with water and injected intravenously (into a vein) by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or medical facility. It is usually given as 2 doses. The first dose is usually given 2 hours before the transplant surgery, and the second dose is usually given 4 days after the transplant surgery.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about basiliximab injection.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

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. 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).

Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, or pain/redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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: 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.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.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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).

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Reviewed on 4/16/2014 References