Anti-Rejection Monoclonal Antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies are used to prevent acute transplant rejection.  Antithymocyte globulins bind to circulating T-cells, which are then destroyed.  Basiliximab works by binding IL-2 receptor on T-cells, which limits activation and proliferation.

Class Drugs

• Antithymocyte globulins

• Basiliximab

Class Mechanism of Action

• See individual drugs

Class Applications

• See individual drugs

Class Adverse Effects

• See individual drugs

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Antithymocyte globulins	Acute transplant rejection (used most commonly during and shortly after transplantation)	Mechanism; -Bind circulating T-cells, which are then destroyed; -Results in lymphopenia; Adverse Effects; -Opportunistic infections; -Leukopenia; -Thrombocytopenia	"Ants and Thymus"
Baciliximab	Acute transplant rejection (used most commonly during and shortly after transplantation)	Mechanism; -Decreases proliferation of T-cells; -Binds IL-2 receptor on T-cells, which limits activation and proliferation	"Basilisk"