Here are 5 common FAQs about basiliximab.
Basiliximab is an immunosuppressant used to prevent acute organ rejection in people receiving a kidney transplant.
It is prescribed as part of an induction regimen immediately after surgery, always used alongside other anti-rejection medications like ciclosporin and corticosteroids.
Basiliximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets and blocks the IL-2 receptor (specifically the CD25 subunit) on the surface of activated T-lymphocytes (T-cells).
By blocking this receptor, it prevents T-cells from multiplying and launching an immune attack against the new donor kidney.
Common side effects include constipation, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, headache, and insomnia.
Because it is given alongside high-dose steroids and other immunosuppressants, patients also frequently experience high blood pressure, elevated blood cholesterol, and peripheral swelling.
Serious risks include severe hypersensitivity or anaphylactic reactions during the infusion, characterized by hypotension, tachycardia, or respiratory distress.
It can also increase the susceptibility to severe opportunistic infections and potentially elevate the long-term risk of developing lymphomas or other malignancies.
Basiliximab comes as a 20 mg powder reconstituted into a solution for intravenous injection or infusion.
For adults and children weighing 35 kg or more, the standard total dose is 40 mg, given in two separate 20 mg doses: the first within 2 hours before transplant surgery, and the second 4 days after the transplant.
Yes. Protecting the new kidney requires strict adherence to all post-transplant medical guidelines.
Because basiliximab profoundly suppresses the immune response during the critical early post-operative phase, avoiding crowds, practicing excellent hand hygiene, eating safely prepared foods, and attending all follow-up clinic appointments are vital.
What are the 10 Most Common Anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs/Steroid) Tablets? Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic or excessive, it can...
Linagliptin – a kidney-friendly tablet for type 2 diabetes Generic name: linagliptin [ LIN-a-GLIP-tin ] Brand name: Tradjenta Use: Type 2 diabetes Tablet form: 5 mg Drug class: Dipeptidyl peptid...
What are the 10 Most Common Steroid Medications? Corticosteroids, commonly known as steroids, are powerful anti-inflammatory medicines used to treat a vast range of conditions, from asthma and severe ...
Ramipril – a tablet for high blood pressure Ramipril is a tablet for high blood pressure, especially useful in many CKD patients What is Ramipril? Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor (angiotensin-conve...
