Basiliximab

It is a chimeric (murine/human) monoclonal antibody (lgG1k), produced by recombinant DNA technology, that functions as an immunosuppressive agent specifically binding to and blocking the interleuking-2 receptor a-chain (IL-2Ra, also known as CD25 antigen) on the surface of activated T-lymphocytes.

Indications

Prophylaxis of acute graft rejection in renal transplantation.

Dosage

IV, 2 doses of 20mg each.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy: Category B; use if needed. Lactation: not known if excreted in milk. Elderly: use with caution.

Side Effects

Peripheral oedema, hypertension, atrial fibrillation; fever, headache, insomnia, pain; wound complication, acne; hypokalaemia, hyperglycaemia, hyperuricaemia, hypophosphataemia, hypercholesterolaemia; GI effects; UTI; anaemia; tremor; dyspnoea' infection. Rarely, hypersensitivity and anaphylactoid-type reactions.

Drug Interactions

Total body clearance is reduced with azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil.