Drug reference

Antithymocyte globulin

Immunosuppressant

Also known as THYMOGLOBULIN, Antithymocyte immunoglobulin (rabbit)

Immunosuppressant

CDSCO approved

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

Manufacturer advises use only if potential benefit outweighs risk—no information available.

FDA category + note

Mechanism

Antithymocyte globulin (rabbit) binds to T lymphocytes and depletes them. It contains antibodies against many CD antigens as well as HLA antigens. This action leads to potent immunosuppression, useful in preventing and treating organ rejection.

Indications

Prophylaxis of organ rejection in renal allograft recipientsTreatment of corticosteroid-resistant allograft rejection in renal transplantationSuppress acute allograft rejection episodes, especially in steroid-resistant casesInduction regimensprevention of organ transplant rejectiontreatment of organ transplant rejectionaplastic anemia

Dosing

Adult: For prophylaxis of organ rejection in renal allograft recipients: 1–2.5 mg/kg daily for 3–5 days, given over at least 6 hours by intravenous infusion. For treatment of corticosteroid-resistant allograft rejection in renal transplantation: 1–1.5 mg/kg daily for 3–9 days, given over at least 6 hours by intravenous infusion.…

Contraindications

Infection

Side effects

Common

ChillsDiarrhoeaDysphagiaDyspnoeaFeverHypotensionInfectionLymphopeniaMyalgiaNauseaNeutropeniaReactivation of infectionSkin reactionsThrombocytopeniaVomitingleukopenia

Serious