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Basiliximab

Generic name: basiliximab [ bass-il-IX-im-ab ]
Brand name: Simulect
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (10 mg; 20 mg)
Drug class: Interleukin inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 25, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is basiliximab?

Basiliximab is used with other medications to prevent organ rejection after a kidney transplant. Basiliximab weakens your immune system to prevent your body from "rejecting" the transplanted kidney.

Basiliximab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Basiliximab side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, rash, itching; feeling like you might pass out; sneezing, wheezing, difficult breathing; fast heartbeats; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

An allergic reaction may occur up to 24 hours after a basiliximab injection.

Basiliximab may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of basiliximab may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You may get infections or bleed more easily. Call your doctor if you have unusual bleeding or signs of infection (fever, cough, skin sores, painful urination).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use basiliximab if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

May harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control while receiving basiliximab and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

Do not breastfeed.

How is basiliximab given?

Basiliximab is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

basiliximab must be given slowly over 30 minutes.

Basiliximab is usually given just before your transplant and again 4 days afterward.

You may get infections or bleed more easily. You will need medical tests.

Basiliximab dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Organ Transplant -- Rejection Prophylaxis:

20 mg by IV infusion over 20 to 30 minutes or by IV bolus injection within 2 hours before surgery and 4 days after transplantation; withhold the second dose if complications occur (e.g., severe hypersensitivity or graft loss)

Comments:
-This drug is used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that includes cyclosporine and corticosteroids.

Use: For the prophylaxis of acute organ rejection in patients receiving renal transplantation when used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that includes cyclosporine and corticosteroids

Usual Pediatric Dose for Organ Transplant -- Rejection Prophylaxis:

One year and older:
-Weight 35 kg or less: 10 mg by IV infusion over 20 to 30 minutes or by IV bolus injection within 2 hours before surgery and 4 days after transplantation; withhold the second dose if complications occur (e.g., severe hypersensitivity or graft loss)
-Weight 35 kg or more: 20 mg by IV infusion over 20 to 30 minutes or by IV bolus injection within 2 hours before surgery and 4 days after transplantation; withhold the second dose if complications occur (e.g., severe hypersensitivity or graft loss)

Comments:
-This drug is used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that includes cyclosporine and corticosteroids.

Use: For the prophylaxis of acute organ rejection in patients receiving renal transplantation when used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that includes cyclosporine and corticosteroids

What happens if I miss a dose?

In a medical setting you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid while receiving basiliximab?

Avoid receiving a "live" vaccine, or you could develop a serious infection. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), and zoster (shingles). Ask your doctor how soon after treatment you can safely receive a live vaccine.

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

What other drugs will affect basiliximab?

Other drugs may affect basiliximab, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.