Basiliximab (ba-si-LIK-si-mab)

Prevents organ rejection after a kidney transplant.

Brand Name(s):

Simulect

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Bloody urine or bloody stools.
• Change in how much or how often you urinate.
• Chest pain, fast or uneven heart beat.
• Confusion or numbness and tingling in your hands, feet, or lips.
• Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, or stomach pain.
• Dry mouth, increased thirst, or muscle cramps.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or body aches.
• Joint pains.
• Pain or burning when passing urine.
• Pale skin or pale lip color.
• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness, headache, or tremors.
• For men: Problems with sex.
• Muscle twitching, weakness, or pain.
• Rapid weight gain.
• Red eyes or blurred vision.