This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Antithymocyte Immunoglobulins contain the active ingredient Antithymocyte immunoglobulins. It is a purified and sterile form of gamma globulin. It is isolated from the hyperimmune plasma of horses immunized with human white blood cell components. It is used after kidney transplantation and other therapies to treat and delay organ rejection. After solid organ transplantation, the body generates an aggressive immune response because it recognizes the transplanted organ's antigens as a foreign antigens. Thus, treatment with immunosuppressive agents is necessary after an organ transplant to prevent organ rejection. Antithymocyte immunoglobulin received initial FDA approval on November 16, 1998.

Mechanism of Action of undefined

The therapeutic effect of antithymocyte immunoglobulins is the suppression of the immune response by targeting and depleting T lymphocytes. This effect is beneficial in preventing organ rejection in solid organ transplantation, where this medication helps increase the success of transplantation and improve graft survival rates. 
Additionally, these are used to treat conditions such as aplastic anemia and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), where the immune system attacks the body's cells or tissues. Modulating the immune response reduces immune-mediated damage, alleviates symptoms, and promotes restoring normal cell production.

Uses of undefined

Antithymocyte immunoglobulins tablets are used for multiple purposes, including preventing organ rejection in organ transplantation, treating aplastic anemia, managing kidney rejection in renal allograft recipients, addressing autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and managing myasthenia gravis, a bone disorder.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Antithymocyte immunoglobulins are typically administered intravenously injection in a hospital or clinical setting. Your healthcare provider will determine the specific dosage and infusion rate based on factors such as the condition being treated, your body weight, and your response to the medication.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Antithymocyte immunoglobulins have several important warnings associated with their use. These warnings include the risk of serious hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which may require immediate medical attention. This medication can increase the risk of infections due to immunosuppression and may cause hepatotoxicity, drug-induced liver injury, and renal dysfunction. Infusion-related reactions, including fever and chills, may occur during administration. It may also lead to blood disorders, such as anemia and thrombocytopenia (decrease in white blood disease). Other warnings include the potential for neurological complications, malignancy risk, cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation, and considerations regarding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Precautions

Precautions should also be taken to minimize the risk of CMV reactivation, and the potential risks and benefits of Antithymocyte immunoglobulins use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully evaluated. It is important to follow healthcare professionals' guidance and seek their individualized monitoring and management advice.

Side Effects

Antithymocyte immunoglobulins are typically administered intravenously injection in a hospital or clinical setting. Your healthcare provider will determine the specific dosage and infusion rate based on factors such as the condition being treated, your body weight, and your response to the medication.

Word Of Advice

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding antithymocyte immunoglobulins or any other medication. Close infection surveillance is essential due to the increased risk associated with immunosuppression. Monitoring liver function, kidney function, and blood counts is advised to detect potential hepatotoxicity, drug-induced liver injury, renal dysfunction, or blood disorders. Infusion-related reactions should be anticipated and managed appropriately. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before taking it. Pediatric and geriatric patients require special consideration. Psychological effects should be monitored, and close consultation with healthcare professionals is necessary to ensure safe and effective use of it. Open communication and collaboration with your healthcare team are key to ensuring the safest and most effective medication use.

Frequently Asked Question

References

1. S.E. Marshall, Immunological Factors in Disease, Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 71-96.

2. Genzyme Corporation, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Apr 2017] [Accessed on 26th May 2023], https://www.fda.gov/media/74641/download

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.