IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENTS Meaning and
Definition
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Immunosuppressive agents, also known as immunosuppressants, are a class of medications or substances that are used to suppress or reduce the activity of the immune system. They are typically prescribed in various medical conditions and situations where it is necessary to intentionally weaken the immune response.
The immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the body from harmful pathogens, infections, and diseases. However, certain medical conditions or underlying problems can result in an overactive or dysfunctional immune system. In these cases, the immune response can cause damage to healthy tissues or organs, leading to inflammation and other adverse outcomes.
Immunosuppressive agents work by inhibiting or modulating specific components of the immune system, such as immune cells or chemical messengers involved in immune responses. By suppressing immune activity, these agents aim to dampen the overactive immune response and reduce inflammation or immune-mediated damage.
These agents are commonly prescribed in various medical situations, including organ transplantation, where they prevent the immune system from rejecting the transplanted organ. They are also used in autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Furthermore, they may be prescribed to manage certain allergic reactions, such as severe asthma or allergic rhinitis.
While immunosuppressants can be extremely beneficial in controlling immune-related disorders, their use also carries potential risks and side effects. These include an increased susceptibility to infections, as the immune system's ability to fight off pathogens is compromised. Additionally, long-term use of immunosuppressive agents may lead to a higher risk of certain types of cancer or other complications related to immune suppression.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENTS
- ummunosuppressive agents
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- imnunosuppressive agents
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- immhnosuppressive agents
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- imminosuppressive agents
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- immubosuppressive agents
- immumosuppressive agents
Etymology of IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE AGENTS
The word "immunosuppressive" has Latin roots. The prefix "im-" in Latin means "not" or "without", and "munis" means "performing a duty" or "obligation". The term "immunosuppressive" originated from the Latin word "immunis" which means "exempt or free". The word "suppressive" comes from the Latin "supprimere", which means "to press down or subdue".
The term "agents" in this context refers to substances or drugs that act or have a specific effect.
Therefore, the etymology of "immunosuppressive agents" can be traced back to Latin roots, describing substances or drugs that suppress or prevent the immune system from functioning fully.
