Uses of orthoclone OKT3 for prophylaxis of rejection and induction in initial nonfunction in kidney transplantation.

We have shown that OKT3 can be safely administered to a varied group of transplant recipients, including a high percentage of diabetics and older patients. Used as a prophylactic agent, OKT3 was associated with a decreased incidence and delayed onset of acute rejection. Effectiveness may be reduced by shortening the course of treatment and/or lowering the dose of concomitant azathioprine. Use of OKT3 in patients with ATN (thereby avoiding use of CyA) may be a beneficial strategy. Stimulation of significant titers of antimurine antibody has not been a common event in this study.