Methylene Blue: Benefits and Side Effects

Pros and Cons of Methylene Blue

To make things easier, here’s a quick look at the potential pros and cons of methylene blue.

Disclaimer: Methylene blue is still being studied for many of its effects. It is not approved as a standard treatment for most of the conditions mentioned here. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a medical condition.

What Is Methylene Blue?

Methylene blue is a bright blue chemical compound first synthesized in 1876. While it was originally created to dye fabrics, it quickly found a home in the medical world.

Doctors began using it to stain bacteria for diagnosis, treat malaria, and later, as a medication for certain blood disorders. Today, it’s FDA-approved to treat a rare condition called methemoglobinemia, but it’s also being studied for much more.

Its ability to enter cells and even the brain makes it especially interesting for research into brain health, energy production, and even aging.

FDA-Approved Use: Treating Methemoglobinemia

Methemoglobinemia is a condition where red blood cells can’t carry oxygen properly. This can lead to fatigue, confusion, and blue-colored skin.

Methylene blue helps by restoring the normal function of red blood cells, allowing them to carry oxygen again. This is the only use officially approved by the FDA.

While this may sound unrelated to general health, the same oxygen-boosting effects are what make people curious about using methylene blue off-label for energy and brain function.

What Are the Benefits of Methylene Blue?

Methylene blue is being studied for a range of promising effects, many of which relate to how it supports mitochondria, the “power plants” of your cells. Here are the key areas where research shows potential:

Mitochondrial Support and Energy

Methylene blue helps mitochondria produce more energy. This could translate to better endurance, less fatigue, and improved cellular function. It may also protect these energy-producing structures from damage as we age.

Cognitive Enhancement

Research indicates that methylene blue may enhance memory and attention. 

A study involving functional MRI scans demonstrated increased activity in brain regions associated with memory retrieval following methylene blue administration.

Neuroprotective Effects

Methylene blue can cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the brain. It’s being studied for its potential to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. It may help by reducing oxidative damage, protecting neurons, and preventing the buildup of harmful proteins.

A study found that methylene blue reduced brain cell damage in Parkinson’s models by lowering oxidative stress.

Antioxidant Properties

By neutralizing free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells), methylene blue may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two major drivers of aging and chronic disease.

A 2021 study showed that methylene blue may lower oxidative stress by supporting mitochondria, which could help reduce inflammation and slow down aging-related damage.

Mood Regulation and Mental Health

Because of its effect on brain chemistry, methylene blue is also being explored for depression and bipolar disorder.

Early research suggests methylene blue may help with depression and bipolar disorder, but more studies are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness.

Antimicrobial and Antiviral Effects

Historically, methylene blue was used to treat infections like gonorrhea and urinary tract infections.

Some studies now explore its potential antiviral effects, including against viruses like SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).

Diagnostic and Imaging Use

In hospitals, methylene blue is often used as a dye to help visualize body tissues during surgery or diagnostics. It stains fast-dividing cells, which helps locate tumors or abnormal tissues.

Disclaimer: These potential benefits are based on early research and off-label use. Always consult a healthcare provider before using methylene blue.

Methylene Blue Benefits for Men

Some of the most enthusiastic users of methylene blue are men looking for an edge in performance and longevity. 

One area of growing curiosity is its potential impact on libido and testosterone. While some users claim that methylene blue supports sexual health or boosts testosterone levels, there’s currently limited scientific research to confirm these effects. 

Still, the interest continues to rise, especially among men exploring supplements that promise both cognitive and physical benefits.

Methylene Blue Possible Side Effects

Methylene blue may sound like a miracle compound, but it carries real risks, especially if taken improperly or without medical advice.

Common Side Effects

• Blue or green urine and stool
• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Changes in taste or sweating
• Skin discoloration (blue-green hue)
• Feeling hot or cold

These effects are typically mild and go away after stopping use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Serotonin Syndrome: If taken with antidepressants, it can cause dangerous symptoms like confusion, rapid heartbeat, or seizures.
• Hemolytic Anemia: People with G6PD deficiency should never use methylene blue, it can destroy red blood cells and cause fatigue, jaundice, or dark urine.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, swelling, and trouble breathing are rare but serious signs.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: May cause mood swings, cramps, or abnormal heartbeat.
• Seizures or confusion: Seen in high doses or sensitive individuals.

If any of these symptoms appear, medical attention is necessary. Remember, consult a doctor before usage.

Is Methylene Blue Safe for Everyday Use?

This is the biggest question readers have, and the answer is complicated.

• FDA stance: Only approved for one condition (methemoglobinemia)
• Supplement use: Not officially regulated. Quality varies greatly online. It's not a supplement, it's a medicine, so take it only as prescribed.
• Daily use: Some people take very small doses daily, but there’s no long-term safety data. For doses, consult with your doctor.
• Form matters: Never take aquarium-grade or industrial methylene blue. Only pharmaceutical-grade is considered safe, and even then, only under professional supervision.

Bottom line: just because you can buy it doesn’t mean you should take it casually.