BASILIXIMAB
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA-approved Basiliximab to prevent the rejection of kidney transplants on May 12, 1998. Basiliximab injection is an immunosuppressant with an active ingredient called Basiliximab. It belongs to the medication class known as monoclonal antibody.
Uses
Basiliximab is used to prevent the rejection of kidney transplants. It is injected within the first 4 to 6 weeks following the transplant. It is used on adults, adolescents, and children.
How is it administered?
The medicine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an intravenous injection into a vein. Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Basiliximab are constipation, nausea, diarrhea, sudden weight gain, overgrowth of normal hair, infections, high blood pressure, and a running nose. Serious side effects while taking Basiliximab are severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, tongue, or lips, difficulty in breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and decreased urine output).
Warnings
Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to Basiliximab or its ingredients. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you had a transplant in the past and failed after a brief period or if you have ever been in the operating room for an unsuccessful transplant. Inform your medical professional if you are above 65 years older because this medicine is not studied in such conditions. Contact your doctor for more information.
Precautions
Do not take any vaccine without consulting your doctor. Inform your physician if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy while undergoing therapy and up to 4 months after the last dosage. Do not breastfeed for up to four months after the second dose. Discuss more fertility concerns with your doctor. Discuss the effective contraception method, as this medicine should not be used during pregnancy.
Word of Advice
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light. Store Basiliximab in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Contact your doctor for more concerns. If you have missed any dosing appointments, inform your doctor and schedule immediately.
References
Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on Sept 2021] [ Accessed on 24th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7834.pdf Xuping Yao et al; Basiliximab induction in kidney transplantation with donation after cardiac death donors; Experimental and Therapeutic medicine; [Published on 08/04/2016], [Accessed on 18/12/2021]; https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/etm.2016.3238 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Accessed on 24th May 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/1998/basnov051298lb.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I manage diarrhea while taking Basiliximab?
If you experience diarrhea while taking Basiliximab, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Your medical professional may also recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage your diarrhea. If your diarrhea is severe or persistent, you should contact your doctor.
How long should I take Basiliximab injection?
Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking Basiliximab if your doctor advises you to stop.
How should Basiliximab be used?
A well-trained physician or nurse should always inject intravenous injection into the patient. Kindly do not self-administer the Basiliximab injection.
When should I contact my doctor?
Notify your medical professional if you experience any side effects, especially allergic reactions with swelling of the face, tongue, or lips, difficulty in breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness, or decreased urine output.
Who should not take Basiliximab injection?
Notify your medical professional if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Basiliximab injection can harm your unborn baby. Also, use effective contraception.