Antithymocyte Globulin (rabbits) Injection

What is this medicine?

ANTI-THYMOCYTE IMMUNE GLOBULIN (an tee THI mo cite im MUNE GLOB yoo lin) weakens the body's immune system. This medicine is used to treat kidney transplant rejection.

How should I use this medicine?

This drug is given as an infusion into a vein. It is administered in a hospital or clinic by a specially trained health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• back or chest pain

• breathing problems

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• fever or chills, infection

• mouth or throat sores or ulcers

• pain at site where injected

• pinpoint red spots on your skin

• seizures

• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• aches and pains

• diarrhea

• headache

• nausea

• night sweats

What may interact with this medicine?

• cancer chemotherapy

• other medicine for immune system problems

• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

• vaccines

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• fever

• infection, especially viral infections

• an unusual or allergic reaction to antithymocyte globulin, rabbits, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine. Visit your doctor for regular checks on your progress even after you complete your therapy.

Call your doctor or health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. This drug decreases your body's ability to fight infections. Try to avoid being around people who are sick. Talk to your doctor before you get any vaccines.

Avoid taking products that contain aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen unless instructed by your doctor. These medicines may hide a fever.