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Immunosuppression refers to the inhibition or suppression of the immune system, which is the body's defense mechanism against infections and diseases. This process can be achieved through various methods, including medications, biological therapies, and surgical interventions. Immunosuppression is commonly used in transplant medicine to prevent the recipient's immune system from attacking the transplanted organ. It is also employed in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

The most commonly used immunosuppressive drugs include corticosteroids, such as prednisone, which reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. Other classes of immunosuppressive agents include calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus), mTOR inhibitors (e.g., sirolimus, everolimus), and antiproliferative drugs (e.g., mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine). Biological therapies, such as anti-T-cell antibodies (e.g., basiliximab, daclizumab), are also used to target specific components of the immune system.

Immunosuppression carries significant risks, including increased susceptibility to infections, cancer, and other complications. Therefore, it is typically used only when necessary and for the shortest duration possible. Monitoring and adjusting the immunosuppressive regimen are essential to balance the benefits of immune suppression with the potential risks. In some cases, immunosuppression may be gradually tapered or discontinued as the body's immune system recovers and the need for suppression decreases.