Effect of erythromycin on the immune response and interferon production

The influence of erythromycin on some aspects of humoral and cell-mediated immunity has been examined employing human as well as murine models, both in vivo and in vitro. No significant differences in antibody synthesis, alpha- and gamma-interferon yield, cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity or lymphocyte blastogenic response to mitogens have been detected between erythromycin-treated subjects and controls. Similarly, in vitro tests on interferon production and blastogenic response to mitogens showed no significant differences when performed with and without erythromycin. Therefore, in contrast with many other antibacterial drugs, erythromycin seems to be devoid of any adverse effects on the immune system.