Methylene Blue (MB)! The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
I use MB several times a week and I'm seeing positive benefits and so are others I know who are using it.
I'm not finding much negative about methylene blue. The main concern is that you need to be cautious if you're taking SSRIs. Another potential drawback is that it’s a petroleum-based dye. However, my chemist and cancer researcher friend says, “Who cares if it’s petroleum-based? It’s just a molecule, and that molecule has amazing health benefits.”
Methylene blue (MB) can also raise systemic blood pressure by reducing vasodilation, which typically occurs at higher doses. It's important to be aware of and monitor this effect. There are various opinions about MB, and I’ve noticed some recent negative comments regarding it. My assessment is based on factual information, my personal experience, and the positive outcomes I've observed in others. For further details on the supposed drawbacks, as well as my opinions on these claims, please refer to the end of this article.
This is not medical advice! I am not a doctor but a respiratory therapist who has researched alternative and natural health options for decades. Please do your own research before considering the use of methylene blue. That said, I’ve found it to be quite amazing for increasing energy levels and improving cognition! On the other hand, my wife did report some increased energy but also reports some increased agitation.
I am approaching the use of MB with a less-is-more perspective. I don’t believe the science is settled yet, so please use caution. I am using a dose between 15 and 25mg three to five times a week (I take 45mg about once per week as a booster dose), taken in the morning and at least 20 minutes before red light therapy (red light therapy is not absolutely necessary to gain positive benefit).
Important note! Anybody taking a Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) should refrain from taking methylene blue unless advised by a provider/physician!!!
What is methylene blue?
Methylene Blue (MB) is often referred to as an electron cycler, and its role can be truly fascinating. When taken in proper doses, it acts in two significant ways. First, it donates electrons to the electron transport chain in our mitochondria, helping to keep the energy production process running smoothly. At the same time, it also accepts free electrons from harmful reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, functioning as a strong antioxidant, possibly even more potent than glutathione.
It's remarkable how few compounds can cycle electrons as effectively as Methylene Blue does. Moreover, it enhances the function of cytochrome oxidase (complex IV) in our mitochondria, which can lead to an increase in glucose consumption. This is crucial because as our mitochondria create more energy, they require more substrates to supply electrons.
Let’s not forget that one of the primary reasons we need to nourish our bodies is to provide our mitochondria with the electrons they so desperately need. As Methylene Blue promotes this energy production and boosts glucose usage, it also enhances the supply of NAD+, independent of oxygen availability. By understanding these processes, we can appreciate how our bodies work to thrive and stay energized.
Optimizing your mitochondria is the ultimate performance-enhancing Biohack because mitochondria are the fundamental energy generation mechanism that underlies everything else.
Animal studies also show that methylene blue is a powerful nootropic. Rats that were treated with methylene blue showed improvements in cognition and memory retention. So did humans in another study, where methylene blue was shown to help short-term memory. Methylene blue definitely helps mitochondrial respiration, and you can feel the difference if you try it.
Its mechanism of action is described:
It can cross the blood-brain barrier and acts as an antioxidant in the brain. It also improves the efficiency of your mitochondria by carrying more electrons into the electron transport chain and increasing your mitochondria’s oxygen consumption.
What can Methylene Blue do for you? The Good!
Redox Properties: Methylene blue acts as a redox molecule, meaning it can both accept and donate electrons. This enhances cellular pathways, which produces the energy cells need to function.
Boosting Mitochondrial Function: Methylene blue benefits energy production, helping to reduce cellular fatigue and maintain vitality.
Reducing Oxidative Stress: Mitochondrial dysfunction often leads to an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause cellular damage. Methylene blue helps to neutralize these harmful molecules, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Combatting Age-Related Diseases: The compound’s ability to improve mitochondrial health positions it as a potential tool against conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease that are linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Skin and Muscle Health: Enhanced mitochondrial activity supports healthier skin and muscles, addressing common issues like skin aging and muscle wasting.
MB combined with red light therapy!
We wrote an article a while ago about using red light therapy and how to build an inexpensive red-light sauna. Here is a link to that article.
When activated by near-infrared light, methylene blue synergizes with photobiomodulation, amplifying its effects on cellular repair, detoxification, and cognitive clarity. This dual activation enhances mitochondrial function and maximizes the benefits of light therapy.
The combination of methylene blue and red-light therapy represents a synergistic approach to promoting health and well-being. By harnessing the unique properties of both modalities, this combination therapy offers enhanced therapeutic benefits across a wide range of health conditions.
Mitochondrial Support
Methylene blue enhances mitochondrial function by facilitating electron transport, while red light therapy stimulates ATP production within the mitochondria. This combined mitochondrial support can improve cellular energy production, enhance cellular function, and promote overall vitality.
Neuroprotection
Methylene blue’s neuroprotective properties complement the neuroregenerative effects of red-light therapy, making this combination therapy particularly beneficial for neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Antimicrobial Synergy
Methylene blue’s antimicrobial activity can be augmented by red light therapy's anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. This synergy enhances the body’s ability to combat infections and promotes a healthy immune response.
Anti-inflammatory Action
The anti-inflammatory effects of methylene blue and red-light therapy synergize to reduce inflammation and pain associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and autoimmune disorders.
Methylene Blue for Cancer
Methylene blue offers hope in the fight against cancer through two primary mechanisms: photodynamic therapy and metabolic disruption. In photodynamic therapy, this innovative treatment accumulates in cancer cells and, when exposed to specific wavelengths of light, creates reactive oxygen species that target and destroy tumors while being gentle on surrounding healthy tissue.
Additionally, methylene blue can disrupt the altered metabolism of cancer cells, pushing them to rely on normal oxygen-based energy production, which can weaken and slow their growth.
Numerous studies have shown that methylene blue can significantly reduce tumor size in cases of colorectal cancer, melanoma, and carcinoma. It's especially encouraging that research indicates it may slow the progression of chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer, providing a promising option for individuals facing particularly tough battles against their disease.
One of the most reassuring aspects of methylene blue is that, unlike traditional chemotherapy and radiation, it does not harm healthy cells. Animal studies have shown its minimal toxicity and lack of severe side effects, contributing to a strong safety profile. Nonetheless, it's vital to ensure that only pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue is used and to be mindful of potential interactions with certain medications, like SSRIs.
Moreover, research suggests that methylene blue can enhance the effects of chemotherapy drugs like carboplatin. It also appears to fortify the immune system's response to tumors, which could lead to better long-term outcomes for patients. While more studies are necessary to find the best combinations and dosing strategies for different cancer types, the advancements in this area bring a sense of hope for many navigating these challenging health journeys.
Here is a study looking at the use of methylene blue for cancer.
Side effects and hazards. Use caution!
While the benefits of methylene blue are significant, it is crucial to use appropriate dosing to avoid severe side effects that may arise with high doses, particularly serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin levels in the brain.
Methylene blue is a potent monoamine oxidase type A (MAO-A) inhibitor, which can dangerously elevate serotonin levels when taken in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other serotonergic medications. Recent research is suggesting that SSRIs may not only be ineffective but also pose risks. If you are currently taking an SSRI, you might want to consider exploring more natural alternatives.
Additionally, doses exceeding 30 to 50 mg can lead to temporary blue discoloration of urine and, in some cases, the tongue. Although this discoloration is harmless, it can be surprising if unexpected. High doses may also interfere with pulse oximeter readings, resulting in inaccurate assessments of blood oxygen levels.
Individuals with severe renal insufficiency should use methylene blue cautiously and under close medical supervision, as impaired kidney function affects the drug's clearance. Furthermore, methylene blue is contraindicated for patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency due to the risk of hemolytic anemia.
Common side effects of methylene blue include mild and transient gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and diarrhea. Allergic reactions can range from skin rashes to potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. Neurological effects, including headaches and confusion, may also occur.
Cardiovascular side effects, though less common, may include increased blood pressure and palpitations. Moreover, methylene blue interacts with various medications, especially antidepressants and antimalarials, potentially altering their effectiveness or causing adverse reactions.
Lower doses, typically between 5 mg and 15 mg, are generally recommended to minimize these risks, especially for long-term use. These dosages are adequate to achieve their metabolic benefits without significantly increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. If you are considering higher doses, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional experienced in treating with methylene blue.
What brand to purchase?
There is a wide variety of methylene blue on the market, and Amazon sells many brands. I purchased this brand on Amazon for $31 and a much more expensive variety from SaunaSpace for $185. Here is a link to the SaunaSpace brand. I feel more energy per mg when I take the SaunaSpace brand, but the price is a major consideration.
The only one you should ever use is the pharmaceutical-grade variety, ideally in solid, capsule, or tablet form. Avoid liquid solutions of methylene blue, as dissolving it in water significantly decreases its effectiveness after 48 to 72 hours.
Methylene Blue Studies
Many studies prove that MB can be useful for a variety of conditions. The following are some studies I looked at that helped me decide to give it a try.
Neurometabolic mechanisms for memory enhancement and neuroprotection of methylene blue
Methylene blue modulates functional connectivity in the human brain
A controlled trial of methylene blue in severe depressive illness
Methylene Blue Application to Lessen Pain: Its Analgesic Effect and Mechanism
Neuroprotective effects of methylene blue in streptozotocin-induced model of Alzheimer's disease
From Mitochondrial Function to Neuroprotection – An Emerging Role for Methylene Blue
The Bad and the Ugly?
In an effort to provide full disclosure, so that you can make your best decision, I’m attaching an article by Dr. Peter Breggin. I have to admit, this article did get me thinking and really reenforced my notion to use caution and go with low doses.
In the article, Breggin claims that MB is highly neurotoxic, without providing any persuasive scientific evidence or research studies to back the claim. I believe he makes some great points and that is why, as with any supplement, caution must be in play, and utilizing the ‘low and slow,’ ‘less is more’ approach is prudent. There are millions of people using MB daily and I have not heard a single negative opinion from the people I know using it.
We had a brief discussion about this in our staff meeting for Leading Edge Clinic and Dr. Pierre Kory isn’t buying it. He says that, in practice, MB works great for certain patients, and it has its place in medicine. For me, MB provides an energy boost and improved cognition. There is no doubt it is boosting my mitochondria! That said, anything in excess could be bad for us. My best advice, if you choose to try MB, is to use it sparingly choosing the smallest dose that provides benefit. I also believe that we shouldn’t be using it indefinitely, but rather in an on/off fashion. If I continue using it, I will take MB vacations and not use it for weeks at time. It’s my theory that the positive effects are lasting and there is no need to use it daily or forever. Anyway, here is a link to Breggin's article.
My Conclusion
I believe the benefits of methylene blue far outweigh any negative effects. I am choosing the ‘low and slow…less is more’ method. A dose of around 0.5 mg per kg is giving me great benefits, such as increased energy and better cognitive recall. I weigh around 70kg, so a dose of 45mg is just over 0.5mg/kg. Of note, I do not take it on a daily basis but rather about two to three times per week. Also, note that your urine will be blue for around 24 hours after taking it.
unless I really blew my math, the less expensive blue amazon bottle is .47/mg
And the $185 black/blue solid is dividable and is .03/mg
Even if you use 1/8 per serving, since you cannot easily get it less than that...
I get $185/240 doses every other day at 22 mg is .77 / dose every other day, it is .39/11 mg dose
The blue bottle amazon is $34/60 - 12 mg doses per day that works out to .57/daily dose
The more expensive one with the cool added ingredients, is actually less.
Forgive me and please be kind if I made a math error.
I do have liquid form and put under my tongue so I don’t have to mix with water as to decrease its effectiveness. Have you heard of this method before? Thanks for info!