Cytokines of interleukins (IL) can regulate the differentiation, proliferation and effector function of immune cells. The expression of specific interleukins induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) antigens could be used to characterize Mtb infection in humans. In host’s anti-tuberculosis immune defense, interleukins can directly regulate the bactericidal activity of phagocytes to inhibit intracellular Mtb growth. Interleukins can also induce the proliferation and effect function of T cells to further enhance the bactericidal activity of phagocytes. Some interleukins are being tested in clinical trials as an adjuvant immunotherapy for tuberculosis treatment. Here, this study reviewed the latest research progresses of interleukins regulating anti-tuberculosis immune response of lymphocytes, and discussed the rationale for the development of interleukins as potential adjunctive treatment in tuberculosis.