What is Thymoglobulin?

Thymoglobulin (pronounced "THY-mo-GLOB-yoo-lin") is a medicine that weakens the immune system. It is commonly used in kidney transplant patients to:

✅ Prevent your body from rejecting the new kidney
✅ Treat rejection if it has already started

It is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion in the hospital under close medical supervision.

Why do I need this medication?

Your immune system’s job is to attack anything it sees as "foreign." A new kidney can be seen by your body as foreign, even though it is lifesaving. Thymoglobulin helps:

  • Lower certain white blood cells called T-lymphocytes
  • Protect your new kidney
  • Reduce inflammation that causes rejection

How is it given?

  • You will receive this medicine through an IV line in your arm or a central line.
  • Each dose takes 4–6 hours or longer to infuse—this is to keep you safe and prevent reactions.
  • You may need several daily doses depending on your treatment plan.
  • You will receive premedication like Tylenol, Benadryl, and steroids before each dose to prevent side effects.

What are common side effects?

Some side effects are expected, especially with the first dose:

Common (usually temporary) What it feels like
Fever or chills Feeling flushed, shaky or cold
Headache Mild to moderate pain in head
Nausea Upset stomach
Tiredness Low energy, fatigue
Low blood pressure Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Low white blood cells Increased risk of infection

These are carefully monitored by the medical team.

More serious (less common) side effects

Tell your nurse or doctor right away if you feel:

⚠️ Trouble breathing
⚠️ Chest tightness or chest pain
⚠️ Throat swelling or trouble swallowing
⚠️ Rash, hives, or itching
⚠️ Severe dizziness or fainting

These may be signs of an allergic reaction and need quick treatment.

Are there infection risks?

Yes. Because Thymoglobulin lowers your immune system, you may be at higher risk of infections. Your team may give you anti-infection medicines to protect you, such as:

  • Valganciclovir — protects against CMV virus
  • Bactrim (TMP-SMX) — prevents pneumonia
  • Antifungal medicine — protects against yeast infections

Call your doctor if you develop:

  • Fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C)
  • Cough or sore throat
  • Burning when you urinate
  • Redness or swelling anywhere

Can I get vaccines while on this treatment?

  • Do NOT get live vaccines (like MMR, varicella/chickenpox, or nasal flu spray).
  • Ask your transplant doctor before getting any vaccine.

Important safety tips

✅ Wash hands often and avoid sick people
✅ Take all your transplant medicines exactly as prescribed
✅ Keep all lab appointments to monitor blood counts
✅ Report signs of infection or unusual bleeding/bruising
✅ Avoid grapefruit or herbal products unless approved by your transplant team

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Thymoglobulin safe?
A: Yes, it is commonly used in transplant patients and given under hospital supervision. You will be closely monitored.

Q: How long does it stay in my system?
A: It may affect your immune cells for weeks to months, which helps protect your kidney.

Q: Is it made from rabbits?
A: Yes, it is made using antibodies from rabbits. If you have a rabbit allergy, tell your doctor before treatment.

When should I call my transplant team?

Call immediately if you have:

  • Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
  • Trouble breathing or chest pain
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Rash, swelling, or hives
  • Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea