How do you take Basiliximab?

This is not a medicine you take at home by yourself. For adults, a doctor gives you 20 mg through a drip into your vein: the first dose is given within 2 hours before your transplant surgery, and the second dose is given 4 days after the transplant. It is strictly administered in a hospital by trained medical staff.

What are the side effects of Basiliximab?

Constipation or stomach upset, headache, swelling of hands or feet, trouble sleeping, and feeling weak or tired

Who should not take Basiliximab?

People who are allergic to basiliximab or any of its ingredients should not receive this medicine. It is not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should only be used in people who are receiving a kidney transplant.

Prescription

Immunosuppressant (monoclonal antibody)

Basiliximab

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Basiliximab (sold as Simulect) is a special medicine given through a drip (IV infusion) that calms down your immune system so it does not attack a newly transplanted kidney. It works by blocking a specific signal that tells your immune cells to fight the new organ.

How it works

Binds to the IL-2 receptor alpha chain (CD25) on activated T lymphocytes, preventing interleukin-2 signalling and blocking T-cell proliferation essential for allograft rejection.

What is it used for?

Prevention of kidney transplant rejection (used alongside other anti-rejection medicines after kidney transplant surgery)

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Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a hospital-only medicine, so never try to buy or use it outside a proper transplant centre. Because it weakens your immune system, avoid crowded places and people who are sick after your transplant to reduce the risk of infections. Always attend all your follow-up appointments so your transplant team can monitor you closely.

Common Side Effects

Constipation or stomach upset
headache
swelling of hands or feet
trouble sleeping
and feeling weak or tired

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, skin rash all over the body): go to the hospital immediately. Serious infections with high fever
chills
or body weakness because the medicine lowers your body's ability to fight germs.

Drug Interactions

Basiliximab is used together with other anti-rejection drugs like cyclosporine and corticosteroids, so your transplant doctor carefully manages all your medicines. Avoid taking any new medicines, herbal remedies, or supplements without telling your doctor first, as your immune system is weakened. Avoid alcohol as it can put extra stress on your body during recovery.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Basiliximab is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose, and should consult their doctor immediately if they suspect pregnancy.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to basiliximab or any of its ingredients should not receive this medicine. It is not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should only be used in people who are receiving a kidney transplant.

How to Store

Simulect should be stored in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). It must be kept away from heat, direct sunlight, and humidity, which is especially important in Nigeria's hot climate. Keep it out of reach of children. This medicine is handled and stored by hospital pharmacies, not at home.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.