Preventing rejection

Your immune system is your body's defense against foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses. Unfortunately, your immune system cannot tell the difference between a harmful invader and your transplanted kidney and will try to reject it.

Anti-rejection medications (also called immunosuppressants) slow down your immune system to help prevent rejection and keep you healthy. You will probably take more than one medication to protect your transplant, and it is very important that you take your medications as prescribed. These medications are key to helping you lead an active life.