Basiliximab
Basiliximab is a monoclonal antibody immunosuppressant used to prevent acute organ rejection in patients receiving kidney transplants. It works by blocking the activation of T-lymphocytes, which are key players in the immune response that can attack transplanted organs. This medication is typically administered as part of a multi-drug immunosuppressive regimen around the time of transplantation.
Basiliximab is an immunosuppressant monoclonal antibody used to prevent kidney transplant rejection by blocking T-cell activation.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L04AC02
- RxNorm
- 196102
- Generic
- Basiliximab
- Class
- atc-l04
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; consider alternative immunosuppression
regular fetal monitoring including ultrasound assessments
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse only if clearly needed
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus; consider timing of last dose before delivery
fetal growth monitoring and standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
nursing mothersdiscontinue breastfeeding
do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 4 months after last dose
inform patients about infant immune system monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
children 2 17 yearsweight-based dosing
approved for pediatric patients 2 years and older for renal transplant prophylaxis; follow pediatric dosing protocol
monitor for infections and immune suppression complications
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentno adjustment needed
no dose adjustment required for any degree of renal impairment; monitor renal function as appropriate
standard renal function monitoring
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severelimited data available
use with caution; limited clinical data on hepatic impairment; consider clinical judgment
monitor liver function tests and clinical response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly 65 years and olderno specific adjustment
use with caution; no specific dose adjustment required but monitor closely for infections
increased vigilance for infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular events
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
Initial FDA approval for prevention of acute organ rejection
Drug class
Pharmacological classification as IL-2 receptor antagonist
Mechanism of action
Blocks interleukin-2 receptor on activated T-lymphocytes
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication in organ transplantation
Basiliximab is indicated for the prophylaxis of acute organ rejection in patients undergoing renal (kidney) transplantation. It is used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that typically includes cyclosporine and corticosteroids, particularly in first-time transplant recipients.
Basiliximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to the CD25 alpha subunit of the interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor on the surface of activated T-lymphocytes. By blocking this receptor, it prevents IL-2 from binding and activating T-cells, thereby inhibiting the immune response that would otherwise attack the transplanted organ.
Basiliximab is administered intravenously, usually in two doses—one before transplant surgery and one 4 days after. Common side effects may include gastrointestinal symptoms and fever. Due to its immunosuppressive effects, patients are at increased risk for infections and require careful monitoring. It should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for 4 months after treatment.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy