Effect of mefloquine on the immune response in mice

The effect of mefloquine, a new antimalarial compound, on the immune response in mice was studied in vitro and in vivo. Slight inhibition of mitogen-induced lymphocyte proliferative responses was observed at a concentration of 1 microgram/ml, and marked cytotoxicity at 4 microgram/ml. In contrast, a higher proportion of human lymphocytes remained viable at the same concentration of mefloquine. Antibody responses to sheep erythrocytes were impaired in mice receiving a total dose of 60 mg/kg. At this dosage schedule, delayed-type hypersensitivity responses to the same antigen were not affected.