immunosuppressive

American  

[im-yuh-noh-suh-pres-iv, ih-myoo-] / ˌɪm yə noʊ səˈprɛs ɪv, ɪˌmyu- /

adjective

1. capable of causing immunosuppression.

   immunosuppressive drugs.

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noun

1. Pharmacology. Also immunosuppressor any substance that results in or effects immunosuppression.

immunosuppressive British  

/ ˌɪmjʊnəʊsəˈprɛsɪv /

noun

1. any drug used for immunosuppression

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adjective

1. of or relating to such a drug

Other Word Forms

• immunosuppressant
  noun

Etymology

Origin of immunosuppressive

First recorded in 1960–65; immuno- + suppressive ( def. )

Example Sentences

These patients often require immunosuppressive drugs, which can allow EBV to reactivate or spread unchecked.

From Science Daily • Apr. 15, 2026

In summary, the study shows that UBL3-driven modification promotes the packaging of PD-L1 into sEVs and that statins can disrupt this process, reducing levels of circulating immunosuppressive PD-L1.

From Science Daily • Jan. 28, 2026

Figures are different for immunosuppressive drug-only Part B coverage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

Higher levels of IPA change this process, altering myelopoiesis and lowering the production of immunosuppressive monocytes.

From Science Daily • Jan. 23, 2026

Organ transplant recipients are among the groups that could benefit most, since missing doses of immunosuppressive medication can quickly lead to organ rejection.

From Science Daily • Jan. 13, 2026