Immunosuppressant drugs
Immunosuppressant Drugs
Immunosuppressant drugs (pronunciation: im·mu·no·sup·pres·sant drugs) are a class of medications that are used to inhibit or prevent the activity of the immune system. They are often used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and to prevent organ transplant rejection.
Etymology
The term "immunosuppressant" is derived from the Latin words "immunis" meaning exempt, and "suppressus" meaning to press down. Thus, immunosuppressant drugs are those that press down or suppress the immune system.
Types of Immunosuppressant Drugs
There are several types of immunosuppressant drugs, including:
- Corticosteroids: These are often used to treat inflammation and autoimmune conditions.
- Calcineurin inhibitors: These are used to prevent organ transplant rejection.
- mTOR inhibitors: These are used in organ transplantation and certain types of cancer.
- Antiproliferative agents: These are used to prevent the immune system from attacking transplanted organs.
Side Effects
Like all medications, immunosuppressant drugs can have side effects. These may include:
- Increased risk of infections
- Nausea and vomiting
- High blood pressure
- Kidney damage
- Increased risk of certain types of cancer
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Immunosuppressant drugs
- Wikipedia's article - Immunosuppressant drugs
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