BASILIXIMAB
About
BASILIXIMAB belongs to a class of drugs called immunosuppressants used to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant. Organ rejection occurs when a patient’s immune system recognizes the donor organ as foreign and tries to eliminate it.
BASILIXIMAB contains Basiliximab, which decreases the production of white blood cells in the body that normally attack foreign invaders and defends the body against foreign cells and infection. As a result, it helps the body accept the new organ and prevents organ rejection in transplant patients. BASILIXIMAB is used with other medicines, such as ciclosporin (immunosuppressant) and corticosteroids.
BASILIXIMAB will be administered by a healthcare professional. Do not self-administer. BASILIXIMAB may cause certain common side effects such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, weight gain, headache, high blood pressure, pain, and swelling of hands, ankles or feet. Most of these side effects of BASILIXIMAB do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if these side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
If you are allergic to Basiliximab, or any other ingredients, tell your doctor. If you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother, it is advised to inform your doctor before receiving BASILIXIMAB. Women are advised to use effective contraceptive measures before starting treatment with BASILIXIMAB, during treatment and for 16 weeks after stopping treatment with BASILIXIMAB. BASILIXIMAB may increase the risk of infections or cancer as it lowers the body’s immune defence system.
Uses of BASILIXIMAB
Medicinal Benefits
BASILIXIMAB contains Basiliximab, an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection after a kidney transplant. BASILIXIMAB is combined with other medications, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. It inhibits the body's production of white blood cells, which normally attack foreign invaders and protect the body from foreign cells and infection. As a result, it prevents organ rejection in transplanted patients and aids the body's acceptance of the new organ.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of BASILIXIMAB
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Pain, swelling of hands, ankles or feet
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you are allergic to Basiliximab, or any other ingredients, tell your doctor. If you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother, it is advised to inform your doctor before receiving BASILIXIMAB. Women are advised to use effective contraceptive measures before starting treatment with BASILIXIMAB, during treatment and for 4 months after stopping treatment with BASILIXIMAB. Do not take any vaccinations without discussing with your doctor. BASILIXIMAB may increase the risk of infections or cancer as it lowers the body’s immune defence system. Inform your doctor if you have ever had a transplant that failed after only a short period or if you have ever been in the operating room for a transplant that was not performed in the end.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbal supplements, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications.
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorThe interaction of alcohol with BASILIXIMAB is unknown. If you have any concerns regarding this, please discuss with your doctor.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorBASILIXIMAB should be used in pregnant women only when the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. You are recommended to use effective contraception before beginning treatment with BASILIXIMAB, during therapy, and for 4 months after completion of therapy.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorIt is unknown whether Basiliximab is excreted in human milk. Based on the importance of drug to the mother, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue BASILIXIMAB.
Driving
safeBASILIXIMAB does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
cautionIf you have any concerns regarding the use of BASILIXIMAB in patients with liver problems, discuss with your doctor.
Kidney
safe if prescribedBASILIXIMAB may be safe to use in patients with kidney problems if prescribed by a doctor.
Children
safe if prescribedBASILIXIMAB may be safe for children if prescribed by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Make sure you eat fruits and vegetables every day.
- Follow a vitamin-C-rich diet.
- Reduce salt intake.
- Eat a handful of walnuts and almonds every day.
- Reduce intake of unhealthy cholesterol and fats.
- Eat dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Organ rejection: It occurs when the patient’s immune system recognizes the donor organ as foreign and tries to eliminate it. Organ rejection may be hyperacute (occurs in minutes to hours), acute (occurs within the first few months), or chronic (occurs after a year or time beyond). The symptoms of organ rejection may vary based on the type of organ transplant you have had. However, if you experience pain, fever, or any other signs of illness, contact your doctor immediately.
FAQs
BASILIXIMAB is used to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant.
BASILIXIMAB contains Basiliximab, which works by inhibiting the body's production of white blood cells, which normally attack foreign invaders and protect the body from foreign cells and infection. As a result, it prevents organ rejection in transplanted patients and aids the body's acceptance of the new organ.
BASILIXIMAB may increase the risk of infections as it may weaken the immune system. Therefore, consult a doctor immediately if you have any signs of infection, such as sore throat or fever.
If you are about to receive any vaccinations, especially live vaccines, inform your doctor that you are on treatment with BASILIXIMAB because it may decrease the effect of the vaccine and increase the risk of infection.