A group of drugs that reduce the activity of the immune system. They include azathioprine, ciclosporin, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and prednisolone. Immunosuppressants are given to prevent rejection after transplant surgery and to slow the progress of autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. The drugs work by suppressing the production and activity of white blood cells called lymphocytes. Side effects vary, but all the drugs increase the risk of infection and of the development of certain cancers.
Immunosuppressant drugs |
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