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basiliximab - injection, Simulect

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GENERIC NAME: BASILIXIMAB - INJECTION (BA-si-LIX-i-mab)

BRAND NAME(S): Simulect

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Basiliximab is used to prevent organ rejection in people who have received a kidney transplant. It is usually taken along with other medications (e.g., cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to allow your new organ to function normally. Basiliximab is an immunosuppressant drug known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by slowing down your body's defense system (immune system) to prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney after surgery (acute rejection).

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is usually given in 2 doses. The first dose is given within 2 hours before the transplant surgery, and the second dose is given 4 days after surgery.Dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.This medication is used with other medications (e.g., cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Take all medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, or pain/redness at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.The use of medications that affect the immune system may lead to increased risk of infection or certain types of cancer. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fever, weakness, swollen glands, night sweats, unusual lumps, persistent cough/sore throat, sores around the mouth/genitals, pain with urination, vision changes, unexplained weight loss.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, unusually fast heartbeat, sneezing, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.