Get Virtual Care
For Businesses
About Us
A member asked:
Can you take enough immunosuppressants to completely shut down the immune system?
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Yes: Total body irradiation was attempted 50 years ago and was successful in shutting down the entire immune system. Unfortunately, this was universally fatal and was abandoned. The trick to successful immunosuppression is leaving enough of the system intact to prevent infection, cancer, and ultimately premature death.
Answered 1/5/2019
6.4k views
Yes: But you would not survive. One can overdose with immunosuppressive drugs just like any other medications. That is why the doses are controlled and monitored.
Answered 11/28/2017
6k views
Related Questions
A member asked:
Are anti histamines immunosuppressants? Like, will taking Claritin for my allergies suppress my immune response if I get sick?
6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A member asked:
If you take hydrocortisone for adrenal insufficiency do you still get fevers when you lets say have appendicitis or other infections? Because they say it shut down your immune system?!
9 doctors weighed in across 4 answers
A member asked:
After transplant do you have to take immunosuppressants for the rest of your life?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
A member asked:
If one receives a dura mater transplant, is the recipient required to take immunosuppressant medication for life, as with other tissue transplants?
A doctor has provided 1 answer
People also searched for:
If I take immunosuppressants after an organ transplant will my immune system be severely compromised in the long term to the extent where flu kills?
Why are immunosuppressants good for some people if we need our immune system to fight off disease?
What are the long-term effects of chemo and immunosuppressants? (long after you're cured). Will your immune system always remain more compromised?
I read that certain people with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to coronavirus. Is this risk greater for people with eczema as well? What if I am taking an immunosuppressant medication for my eczema?
How can I suppress my immune system given my autoimmune disease? Should i request immunosuppressant medications? Are there any other options?
Didn't find what you're looking for?
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your questionMore of what we treat
Download HealthTap
Video visit and message your doctor
