Immunosuppressant

An immunosuppressant is a member of a broad class of drugs characterized by effect rather than chemistry. They "suppress immune function by one of several mechanisms of action. Classical cytotoxic immunosuppressants act by inhibiting DNA synthesis. Others may act through activation of T-cells or by inhibiting the activation of helper cells. While immunosuppression has been brought about in the past primarily to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, new applications involving mediation of the effects of interleukins and other cytokines are emerging."

Other applications include the treatment of autoimmune diseases including asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

Cytotoxic immunosuppressants

• Alkylating agent [r]: A highly reactive chemical that introduces alkyl radicals into biologically active molecules and thereby prevent their proper functioning. Many are used as antineoplastic agents, but most are very toxic, with carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic, and immunosuppressant actions. ^[e]

Cytokine mediators

• soluble tumor necrosis factor-alpha receptor
• tacrolimus