Basiliximab

Products

Basiliximab is commercially available as an injectable (Simulect, Novartis). It has been approved in many countries, in the EU, and in the United States since 1998.

Structure and properties

Basiliximab is a chimeric monoclonal human murine IgG1κ antibody with a molecular mass of 144 kDa. It is produced by biotechnological methods. The drug name is derived from Basilisk and Basel, the headquarters of Novartis.

Effects

Basiliximab (ATC L04AC02) has immunosuppressive properties. The antibody is directed against the alpha chain (CD25 antigen) of the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2Rα) on the surface of T lymphocytes. It prevents the binding of interleukin-2, the signal for T-cell proliferation. The mean half-life is approximately 7 days.

Indications

For prevention of acute graft rejection after renal transplantation in combination with defined immunosuppressants.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous bolus injection or as an intravenous infusion.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include infection, anemia, hyperkalemia, headache, hypertension, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and injection site pain and peripheral edema.