What are immune system modulators?
Immune system modulators, or immunomodulators, are treatments that enhance or suppress the immune system's activity to help the body fight diseases, including infections, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. They work by influencing how the immune system responds to abnormal cells or external threats. These therapies can either "boost" immune activity (immunostimulation) or "calm down" an overactive immune system (immunosuppression).
Immunomodulators treat many conditions, including but not limited to:
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Lupus
- Myositis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Psoriasis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ulcerative colitis
- Certain cancers
How do immunomodulators work?
Immunostimulators are used to boost the immune response, typically to combat infections, cancer or weakened immune systems. Cytokines, checkpoint inhibitors and vaccines are all examples of immunostimulators.
Immunosuppressants suppress immune activity to prevent the body from attacking its own tissues or rejecting transplanted organs. Corticosteroids and biologic agents are examples of immunosuppressants.
You may receive an immunomodulator:
- By IV
- By injection into the fatty tissue underneath your skin
- By a pill or tablet
- By a topical cream applied to your skin
What are side effects of immunomodulators?
Side effects of immunomodulators will depend on the specific treatment. Common side effects can include:
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Rash
Talk with your hematology oncologist to determine if immunomodulators are right for you.