Muromonab-CD3 (Orthoclone OKT3)

Synonyms

Muromonab CD3 is also referred to as OKT3.

Uses

Muromonab CD3 is used to reduce the natural immunity of patients who receive organ transplants.

Action

Muromonab CD3 is a monoclonal antibody that prevents white blood cells from causing organ rejection.

Types Available

Muromonab CD3 is a liquid that is given by injection.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Muromonab CD3 include:

• Increased risk of infection. You can help to prevent infection by making sure your child avoids contact with people who are ill.
• Reduction in the number of blood cells needed for clotting. To prevent bleeding, avoid situations where bruising or injury might occur.
• Chest pain, dizziness, fever and chills, shortness of breath, stomach upset, and trembling or shaking of the hands within a few hours after taking the first dose. These effects should lessen substantially after the second dose and should not occur after that.

Other common side effects of Muromonab CD3 include:

• diarrhea
• faintness
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• rapid heartbeat

Rare side effects of Muromonab CD3 include:

• stiff neck
• light sensitivity
• confusion
• hallucinations
• unusual tiredness

If any of these side effects continues or becomes bothersome, inform your child's doctor.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medication that you are taking, so you can be warned of interactions and prevent them.