|  | Surgeries Operations | Surgeries

Common Side Effects of Immunosuppressive Therapy

Immunosuppressive therapy uses prescription medication to inhibit the actions of the immune system to treat disease caused by immune disorders like Type 1 diabetes, as well as to prevent organ rejection following transplants. Despite its effectiveness, immunosuppressive therapy poses a risk for side effects.

  1. Types of Side Effects

    • Possible side effects of immunosuppressive therapy include fever, high blood pressure, hair loss or excessive growth, joint pain, nausea, itching and trembling.

    Time Frame

    • Some side effects of immunosuppressive therapy develop right away, while others occur over time. Most side effects of the therapy subside after treatment ends, according to the National Marrow Donor Program.

    Infections

    • Because immunosuppressive therapy inhibits the immune system, many patients develop infections while undergoing treatment. These conditions are usually treatable with medications and include fungal and bacterial infections.

    Risks

    • Risks of immunosuppressive therapy include loss of bone marrow, osteoporosis and damage to the kidneys, liver or pancreas.

    Link to Cancer

    • In a study published in the Acta Med Austriaca, Dr. N. Thumb reported that immunosuppressive therapy poses a risk for the development of leukemia, lymphoma and other forms of cancer.

Surgeries - Related Articles