Immunomodulators

Immunomodulators (pronounced: im-yuh-noh-MOD-yuh-lay-tors) are a type of drug that alters the immune response by augmenting or reducing the ability of the immune system to produce a response. They are used in the treatment of various diseases, including autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancers.

Etymology

The term "Immunomodulators" is derived from the Latin words 'immunis' meaning exempt and 'modus' meaning measure or manner. It refers to the ability of these drugs to modify or regulate the immune system's response.

Types of Immunomodulators

There are several types of immunomodulators, including:

Immunosuppressants: These drugs suppress the immune system's response, making it less active. They are often used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and to prevent organ rejection after a transplant.

Immunostimulants: These drugs stimulate the immune system, making it more active. They are often used in the treatment of infections and cancers.

Immunoadjuvants: These drugs enhance the effect of vaccines by stimulating the immune system to respond more strongly to the vaccine.

Related Terms

Autoimmune diseases: These are diseases in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.

Infections: These are diseases caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Cancers: These are diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.

Vaccines: These are substances used to stimulate the immune system to produce immunity to a specific disease.

Organ rejection: This is a process in which the immune system attacks a transplanted organ as if it were a foreign body.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Immunomodulators
Wikipedia's article - Immunomodulators

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Immunomodulators