Immunopharmacology
Immunopharmacology (pronounced: im·mu·no·phar·ma·col·o·gy) is a branch of pharmacology that deals with the application of drugs in the modulation of the immune system. The term is derived from the Greek words "immunos" (immune), "pharmakon" (drug), and "logia" (study).
Definition
Immunopharmacology is the study of the effects of different drugs on the immune system. It involves the application of pharmacological substances to regulate or modulate the immune system, either to enhance its response to a disease or to suppress it in cases of auto-immune diseases and organ transplantation.
History
The field of immunopharmacology has evolved from the traditional use of plants and herbs for healing, which often had immunomodulatory effects. The modern field of immunopharmacology began to take shape in the 20th century with the development of the first immunosuppressive drugs such as corticosteroids and cyclosporine.
Types of Immunopharmacological Drugs
Immunopharmacological drugs can be broadly classified into two categories: immunosuppressants and immunostimulants. Immunosuppressants are drugs that reduce the body's immune response, and are used in conditions like auto-immune diseases and organ transplantation. Immunostimulants are drugs that enhance the body's immune response, and are used in conditions like immunodeficiency disorders.
Applications
Immunopharmacology has a wide range of applications in modern medicine. It is used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and infectious diseases. It is also used in organ transplantation to prevent the body's immune system from rejecting the transplanted organ.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Immunopharmacology
- Wikipedia's article - Immunopharmacology
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