INDICATIONS FOR USE

Methylene Blue is used off-label for cognitive enhancement, mitochondrial support, mood stabilization, and as an antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory agent. It is also used in integrative and anti-aging medicine for its potential neuroprotective effects and may be part of protocols for patients with brain fog, early cognitive decline, or chronic fatigue.

ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION

• Oral Capsule

COMMON INITIAL DOSING REGIMENS

• Low-dose oral protocols typically begin at 10–20 mg daily. Depending on the formulation and clinical goals, dosing may increase gradually to 1–2 mg/kg per day. Treatment cycles vary and may involve 5 days on / 2 days off or continuous low-dose therapy under supervision.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

• Methylene Blue is a redox-active dye that serves as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, particularly between complexes I and III. It bypasses damaged components of the chain and can restore ATP production in stressed or dysfunctional mitochondria.

• It also acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) at higher doses and has shown mild serotonergic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. In neurodegenerative disease models, Methylene Blue has been observed to reduce tau aggregation and oxidative stress.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• General: Headache, nausea, dizziness, or restlessness.

• Urinary: Blue or green discoloration of urine (benign and expected).

• Gastrointestinal: Stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or taste disturbance.

• Neurologic: In high doses or in combination with SSRIs/SNRIs, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

• Rare: Hemolytic anemia in patients with G6PD deficiency; allergic reactions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Absolute: Known hypersensitivity to Methylene Blue. Current use of serotonergic medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. G6PD deficiency due to risk of hemolysis.

• Relative: Use with caution in individuals with renal impairment, psychiatric conditions, or pregnant or breastfeeding women. May interact with photosensitizing drugs.

COMPARISON WITH OTHER AGENTS

• NAD+ Precursors (NMN, NR): These enhance mitochondrial function via NAD+ restoration. Methylene Blue supports energy production directly by transferring electrons in the electron transport chain.

• Antioxidants (CoQ10, PQQ): These reduce oxidative stress and support mitochondrial health, but do not act as electron carriers. Methylene Blue may be more effective in bypassing dysfunctional mitochondria.

• Cognitive Enhancers (Modafinil, Racetams): These promote wakefulness or neurotransmitter modulation, whereas Methylene Blue works primarily through mitochondrial and cellular energy pathways.

EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT DISCLAIMER:

• Methylene Blue is not FDA-approved for cognitive enhancement, mitochondrial support, or any longevity-related purpose. While it has historical medical uses for methemoglobinemia and urinary tract antisepsis, these are distinct from the applications described above. Use for neuroenhancement or anti-aging is considered experimental. The long-term safety, optimal dosing, and efficacy of Methylene Blue in these contexts are not fully established. The patient understands and accepts the experimental nature of this therapy and assumes all associated risks.

LEARN MORE

• Evidence hound? Review our comprehensive listing of PubMed direct links to original research related to this medication.