Medicines that reduce inflammation or immune activity

Corticosteroids (such as prednisone) may quickly reduce inflammation during flares, but long-term use is usually limited because of side effects.

Immunosuppressants (such as methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate, or cyclophosphamide) reduce immune system activity.

Biologic therapies target specific immune pathways (for example, TNF inhibitors or other targeted antibodies) and are used in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, and some others.