Transplantation
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Basiliximab versus antithymocyte globulin for prevention of acute renal allograft rejection.
Basiliximab (Simulect), a high-affinity chimeric, monoclonal antibody directed against the alpha chain of human interleukin-2 receptor (CD25), reduces the incidence of acute renal allograft rejection when used in combination with cyclosporine (Neoral) and steroids. This study was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of basiliximab to polyclonal anti-T-cell (ATGAM) therapy for the prevention of acute rejection in de novo renal transplant recipients. ⋯ Basiliximab combined with early initiation of cyclosporine therapy resulted in low acute rejection rates similar to those achieved with ATG combined with delayed cyclosporine. Basiliximab therapy showed an excellent safety profile, with no increases in malignancies, infections, or deaths. Based on its convenient two-dose, body-weight independent regimen and comparable effectiveness to ATG, basiliximab is an attractive choice for the prevention of acute rejection episodes in renal transplant patients.