US Medical Term · medications
Immunosuppressant
Inmunosupresor
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Immunosuppressant |
| Spanish (Español) | Inmunosupresor |
| Chinese (中文) | 免疫抑制劑 |
| Korean (한국어) | 면역억제제 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Thuốc ức chế miễn dịch |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Immunosuppressant |
| Portuguese (Português) | Imunossupressor |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ยากดภูมิคุ้มกัน |
| Japanese (日本語) | 免疫抑制薬 |
What it means
Immunosuppressants are medications that reduce the activity of the immune system. They are used to prevent organ rejection after transplants and to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Common immunosuppressants include tacrolimus, cyclosporine, mycophenolate, azathioprine, and methotrexate. Because they lower immune defenses, patients are at higher risk of infections — report any signs of infection to your doctor immediately. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor drug levels and organ function. Avoid live vaccines while on immunosuppressants. Sun protection is important, as some immunosuppressants increase the risk of skin cancer.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is this medication an immunosuppressant and what does it do to my immune system?
¿Este medicamento es un inmunosupresor y qué le hace a mi sistema inmunitario?
Should I avoid being around sick people while taking this immunosuppressant?
¿Debo evitar estar cerca de personas enfermas mientras tomo este inmunosupresor?
Are there vaccines I should not receive while on this medication?
¿Hay vacunas que no deba recibir mientras tomo este medicamento?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026