Yes, methylene blue is generally considered safe for use as a medication and supplement. Methylene blue has been cited in over 200 studies for health benefits including mitochondrial health, energy production, brain health, mood support, inflammation, longevity and cellular health. Methylene blue safety is determined by the quality (only use pharmaceutical grade) and dosages. Methylene blue dosage ranges between 5mg and 60mg a day as determined by a healthcare provider.

Methylene blue must not be used in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Methylene blue may cause serotonergic syndrome when used in combination with serotonergic drugs. Methylene blue drops must be avoided during pregnancy and nursing, severe kidney disease, liver disease, in children and individuals with G6PD Deficiency.

Patients with kidney disease or impaired renal function must avoid or be monitored by a healthcare professional. Patients with liver disease should avoid methylene blue or use it only under medical supervision because the liver is responsible for metabolizing the compound.

Methylene blue can lower blood pressure, so people with hypotension (low blood pressure) must be monitored closely by a healthcare professional or avoid use. Individuals with known allergies to methylene blue or other dyes should avoid use.

Individuals with G6PD Deficiency (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), a genetic enzyme disorder, should avoid use of methylene blue. Methylene blue is generally considered safe when used as a dye for diagnostic purposes, but it must be carefully considered as a medication in pediatric patients.

Methylene Blue acts as an electron carrier, boosting oxygen use in cells, reduces harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS), and supports brain health by influencing key steps in the electron transport chain. Methylene Blue helps red blood cells carry and release oxygen properly in the body, improving oxygen delivery while protecting from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation.

The different forms of methylene blue are listed below.

• Injectable Solution : Methylene blue is used as an injectable solution as a medical treatment to treat methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder), as an antidote to cyanide or carbon monoxide poisoning and as a surgical marker to dye tissues during surgery. Methylene blue is used as an injectable solution due to its rapid action in the bloodstream, is highly effective in emergencies like methemoglobinemia to quickly restore oxygen transport in the blood and precise dosing ensures safety and efficacy.

• Oral Capsules or Tablets : Methylene blue oral capsules and tablets are used as therapeutical applications for urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to antiseptic properties, improved memory, mitochondrial function, and as a malaria treatment (although less common today). Methylene blue capsules are convenient, non-invasive, support the metabolic process throughout the body and may offer neuroprotective benefits.

• Topical Solutions : Methylene blue topical solutions are applied to the skin to treat fungal infections, used in dental practices for oral infections or as a stain to diagnose lesions, and being used in cosmetics for anti-aging properties due to its antioxidant properties. Methylene blue topical solutions are easy to apply directly to affected areas, effective against minor infection and easily able to be added to cosmetics.

• Drops : Methylene blue drops are used as a supplement for mitochondrial function, increased energy, reduced brain fog, protection against oxidative stress and beauty from within. Methylene blue drops are easy to ingest, offer full body benefits and easy to dose.

• Powders : Methylene blue powder is used as a staining agent in histology and microbiology to stain cells, bacteria and tissues for examination. Methylene blue powder is versatile for use in lab settings, economical and stable for long term storage.

• Aqueous Solutions : Methylene blue aqueous solutions are used in labs to stain specimens in microscopy, used in chemical analysis to measure oxygen levels, and assess cell viability. Methylene blue aqueous solutions save preparation time due to being pre-dissolved, provide consistent experimental results from uniform concentration and are safe to handle in controlled environments.

• Aquaculture Forms : Methylene blue aquaculture is used to treat fungal infections and parasites in fish tanks, prevents fungal growth on fish eggs during hatching processes and used in water monitoring to indicate oxygen levels in aquaculture systems. Methylene blue aquaculture solutions benefits include broad spectrum antimicrobial action to protect aquatic life, has low toxicity levels when used at recommended concentrations and improves survival rates in hatcheries.

• Industrial Dyes : Methylene blue industrial dye is used to color fabrics, paper, plastics, and inks in manufacturing due to its vibrant color and chemical stability. Methylene blue is used in industrial processes as a pH or redox (A chemical reaction that takes place between an oxidizing substance and a reducing substance) indicator, and added to materials such as plastics or inks for coloration and UV resistance. Methylene blue dye provides a strong blue hue, is chemically stable and an affordable solution for large-scale industrial applications.

There are over 200 studies regarding methylene blue benefits in human, animal and invitro testing, highlighting promising benefits for brain, memory, mood, longevity and anti aging properties.

• Brain Health : Methylene blue may improve brain health, improve memory and assist Alzheimer's disease by aiding in blood oxygen difficulties which can improve memory, make thinking sharper and help the brain function better overall. 2011 January 31 by Murat Oz Et al. Cellular and Molecular Actions of Methylene Blue in the Nervous System.

• Mitochondria : Methylene blue may protect and keep mitochondria healthy by delaying natural wear and tear, which keeps them running smoothly and slow cell aging- keeping cells in the body younger and healthier for longer. 2010 Hani Atamna Et al. Protective Role of Methylene Blue in Alzheimer's Disease via Mitochondria and Cytochrome c Oxidase.

• Cellular Energy : Methylene blue may improve energy levels by enhancing oxygen utilization in cells, which boosts ATP production and supports cellular metabolism. 2023, June 26.by Evangelos Bistas 

• Anti Aging : Methylene blue is a powerful anti aging antioxidant that assists in slowing skin aging by reducing cell damage and supporting mitochondria while reducing cellular damage from stress. 2021, Dec 1 by Huijing Xue Et al. Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland

Yes, methylene blue helps the skin by neutralizing free radicals, promoting collagen production, thickening skin, and supporting wound healing by reducing oxidative stress according to a 2017 study by Xiong, ZM., O’Donovan, M., Sun, L. et al. Anti-Aging Potentials of Methylene Blue for Human Skin Longevity, Methylene blue is a powerful antioxidant that may protect cells from UV damage, stress and wearing down through increased oxygen flow. Oxidative stress is a major cause in aging skin that causes wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and delayed wound healing ability.

Topical methylene blue is effective against bacteria, and fungi. Methylene blue has historically been used to treat skin infections, such as fungal conditions, ringworm or candidiasis and bacterial infections. Inhibiting pathogens helps prevent or resolve infections, promoting faster healing of damaged skin.

Methylene blue acts as an antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals and supporting mitochondrial function, which aids anti-aging and skin rejuvenation. Protecting skin cells from oxidative damage caused by UV exposure or pollution may reduce signs of premature aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation.

Methylene blue research on mitochondrial enhancement suggests it could protect skin cells from aging, but topical applications for this purpose are still experimental. A 2018 study in Scientific Reports investigated methylene blue’s potential in photodynamic therapy for skin cancer, showing promising research for broader dermatological use.

Methylene blue side effects are typically associated with intravenous methylene blue medical treatments. Methylene blue supplements side effects lack the same level of research and documentation. Methylene blue side effects are listed below.

• Serotonin Syndrome : Serotonin Syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition from excess serotonin. Methylene blue can precipitate serotonin syndrome when combined with certain drugs such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

• Overstimulation : Overstimulation is an increase in the cardiovascular or nervous system with symptoms of rapid heart rate, restlessness, shivering, trembling or shaking. Methylene blue administered in high doses or rapid administration may affect brain function, due to its impact on neurotransmitter systems.

• Discoloration : Discoloration may occur with high doses of methylene blue, causing a blue-green color in urine, stool, skin, or nail beds. Methylene blue is excreted through the kidneys and intestines, and its dye properties directly stain bodily fluids and waste.

• Nausea : Nausea is a feeling of sickness or discomfort in the stomach, sometimes leading to vomiting. Methylene blue medical treatments can irritate the gastrointestinal system or affect the central nervous system, triggering nausea as a response.

• Dizziness : Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness or unsteadiness caused by an alteration of blood flow or oxygen delivery in the body, affecting the brain and balance systems.

• Aches : Aches are pain or discomfort in the head, arms, or legs- which may be the result from changes in blood pressure as methylene blue interacts with the nervous system.

• Hypotension: Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure) is a drop in blood pressure, leading to weakness or fainting. Methylene blue medical treatments may relax blood vessels or interfere with normal cardiovascular regulation.

• Hemolytic Anemia : Hemolytic anemia is a destruction of red blood cells, causing fatigue or jaundice. Patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency must avoid methylene blue, unless closely supervised by a medical professional, which can trigger oxidative stress, damaging red blood cells.

• Allergic Reaction : Allergic reactions include rash, itching, or, in rare cases, anaphylaxis (severe allergic response). Methylene blue may be recognized in the immune system as a foreign substance, triggering a hypersensitivity reaction.

Methylene blue uses include medical, scientific, veterinary, aquaculture, industrial, diagnostic, health and beauty uses. The list of methylene blue uses are below.

• Medical Uses : Methylene blue has various medical uses, primarily as a dye and a therapeutic agent such as preventing ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy (a potentially fatal toxicity of ifosfamide, a cancer drug) in cancer patients, and preventing urinary tract infections. Methylene blue is an FDA approved treatment for methemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder where hemoglobin cannot effectively release oxygen to body tissues, by acting as a reducing agent to convert methemoglobin back to hemoglobin. Methylene blue has been used in medicine for cyanide poisoning and treating malaria, though not as much today. Methylene blue medical use benefits include rapid action, exact dosages and effectiveness in emergency situations, as well as its use in surgeries to stain tissues for better visualization, and in sterilizing blood prior to transfusions. Lu, G., Nagbanshi, M., Goldau, N., et al. (2018). Efficacy and safety of methylene blue in the treatment of malaria: a systematic review. BMC Medicine 15(59).

• Laboratory and Scientific Uses : Methylene blue is used as a staining agent in laboratory and scientific settings. Scientist Paul Ehrlich discovered methylene blue's staining properties for bacteria. Methylene blue is used to dye cells and tissues in microscopy to observe cellular structures and processes under a microscope more clearly. Methylene blue is used in microbiology to stain bacterial cells and tissues to highlight shape, structures and locations. Methylene blue is used in hematology to differentiate blood cell types and in chemistry as a redox indicator ( a molecule that changes color when introduced to certain changes) because it changes color predictably when exposed to oxidation-reduction reactions, making it useful in chemical analysis, and used as a tool for analyzing cellular metabolism and oxidative stress. The scientific uses of methylene blue benefit in its ability to highlight specific cellular components, aiding in research and educational purposes.

• Veterinary Uses : Methylene blue veterinary uses include medicine to treat animals with similar conditions as in humans, such as methemoglobinemia and urinary tract infections. Methylene blue is administered to cats, dogs, livestock, and other animals to detoxify blood and is used as an antifungal, antibacterial and antiparasitic agent in topical treatments. Methylene blue veterinary benefits are its versatility and efficacy in improving animal health across multiple species.

• Aquaculture Uses : Methylene blue aquaculture uses help maintain the health of fish and other aquatic organisms. Methylene blue is used as an antifungal and antiparasitic treatment in fish tanks and hatcheries, preventing diseases like fungal infections on fish eggs, as a disinfectant, and treating specific fungal and parasitic fish diseases. Methylene blue aquaculture benefits include enhancing survival rates and promoting healthier aquatic environments.

• Industrial Uses : Methylene blue is used in various industrial processes as a dye and chemical indicator. Methylene blue is used in textiles for dyeing fabrics, paper and plastics as well as in the production of inks and paints due to its vibrant blue color. Methylene blue industrial benefits include its stability and intense coloration, which improve product quality and consistency at an affordable cost at scale.

• Diagnostic Uses : Methylene blue is used in medical diagnostics to assist in procedures like cystoscopy to detect bladder leaks or fistulas, and in sentinel lymph node mapping during cancer surgeries. The benefit of methylene blue in diagnostics is its precision in highlighting specific areas, aiding accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

• Health Uses : Methylene blue is being researched for health uses as a nootropic to enhance cognitive function and memory, and as an antioxidant to combat oxidative stress, enhance mitochondria function for more energy, reduce brain fog and increase cellular longevity. Methylene blue health benefits include its potential neuroprotective effects and support for overall cellular health. Schirmer, R. H., Adler, H., Pickhardt, M., & Mandelkow, E. (2011). “Lest we forget you - methylene blue…” Neurobiology of Aging 32(12).

• Beauty Uses : Methylene blue is incorporated into beauty cosmetic and skincare products for its unique antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Methylene blue is used in formulations like anti-aging creams and serums due to its antioxidant capabilities to help reduce oxidative damage to skin cells, and help protect cells from UV and stress induced damage. Methylene blue beauty benefits are being researched for potentially promoting a youthful appearance by minimizing fine lines and improving skin health by increasing collagen and elastin production while helping protect from oxidative stress.

• Anti-Aging Uses : Methylene blue anti-aging uses are being investigated for its potential to slow or mitigate the aging process at a cellular level through increasing oxygen, and electron transfer, while protecting from oxidative stress. Methylene blue is used in research and experimental treatments to enhance mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress, which are linked to aging. Methylene blue benefits include the possibility of extending cellular lifespan and improving overall vitality.

• Neurological Uses : Methylene blue neurological uses are being researched for its potential in treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimers, due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the brain. Methylene blue is used to reduce oxidative stress, enhance mitochondrial respiration as an electron carrier, and promote the clearance of tau proteins (a group of proteins primarily found in the brain that play a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of neurons) and amyloid plaques (abnormal deposits of a protein called beta-amyloid (Aβ) in the brain, a hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions), which are implicated in diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease. Methylene blue neurological benefits include potentially improved cognitive performance and neuroprotection through mechanisms like increasing Nrf2 expression (how much of a protein, called Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), is being made or activated in the cells.
  
  This protein acts like a guardian that helps protect your body by turning on genes that fight off harmful toxins or stress, which can damage cells), and facilitating autophagy (a cellular process in which cells recycle their own damaged or unnecessary components). Hashmi, M. U., Ahmed, R., Mahmoud, S., et al. (2023). Exploring Methylene Blue and Its Derivatives in Alzheimer’s Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Randomized Control Trials.
  
  

Methylene blue treatment was first used in 1891 when German physician and Nobel laureate Paul Ehrlich explored methylene blue’s use as a staining agent and potential therapeutic compound. Paul Ehrlich researched methylene blue’s ability to stain cells and tissues while working in hematology and chemotherapy, discovering its use in medical diagnostics. The list of methylene blue medical treatments is listed below.

• Methemoglobinemia : Methemoglobinemia is a condition where hemoglobin is oxidized into methemoglobin, impairing oxygen delivery to tissues, often due to chemical exposure or genetics. Methylene blue methemoglobinemia treatment acts as a reducing agent, converting methemoglobin back to hemoglobin to restore oxygen transport in the blood. Methylene blue is an FDA-approved Methylene blue methemoglobinemia treatment. A study by Clifton and Leikin (2003) in Annals of Emergency Medicine demonstrated methylene blue’s efficacy in rapidly reversing methemoglobinemia in emergency settings.

• Malaria : Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, with symptoms of fever, chills, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Methylene blue malaria treatment was one of the first synthetic antimalarial drugs, targeting the Plasmodium parasite. Methylene blue disrupts the parasite’s metabolism by inhibiting glutathione reductase, killing it. 2006, Meissner et al. in The Lancet Infectious Diseases.

• Urinary Tract Infections : Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a bacterial infection in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Methylene blue is used to treat UTI symptoms as an antiseptic and mild analgesic in some oral medications, reducing discomfort and bacterial growth. Methylene blue UTI treatment is not an FDA-approved standalone treatment, but occurs in combination drugs. 1976, Pfau et al. in Urology.

• Vasoplegic Syndrome : Vasoplegic Syndrome is a post-cardiopulmonary (related to heart or lungs) bypass complication, characterized by profound hypotension, where blood pressure drops below the normal range. Methylene blue vasoplegic syndrome treatment addresses the severe blood pressure drop post-cardiac surgery by inhibiting nitric oxide synthase and guanylate cyclase, stabilizing blood pressure. Methylene blue vasoplegic syndrome treatment is not FDA-approved but used off-label. 2010 study by Leyh et al. in Critical Care.

• Cyanide Poisoning : Cyanide poisoning is caused by exposure to any of a number of forms of cyanide, including plants, bacterial and industrial compounds. Cyanide poisoning is a potentially deadly condition with symptoms including headache, dizziness, fast heart rate, shortness of breath, and vomiting- followed by slow heart rate, seizures, low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and cardiac arrest. Methylene blue cyanide poisoning treatment assists in cyanide poisoning by inducing methemoglobin to bind cyanide, reducing toxicity, typically used with other antidotes. Methylene blue cyanide poisoning treatment is not FDA-approved. 1995, Beasley and Glass in Medical Toxicology and Adverse Drug Experience.

• Alzheimer’s Disease: Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior, being the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer's disease causes are unknown, with potential causes including abnormal protein buildup in the brain, genetic factors and age. Methylene blue Alzheimer’s Disease treatment is experimental, but is being researched to potentially reduce oxidative stress, inhibit plaques, and improve overall brain health. Methylene blue Alzheimer’s Disease treatment is not FDA-approved. A 2017 study by Wischik et al. in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported that LMTM (a methylene blue derivative) improved cognition and reduced amyloid in Alzheimer’s patients.

• Septic Shock : Septic Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection (from bacteria, virus, fungal or parasites) triggers a widespread inflammatory response, leading to dangerously low blood pressure and organ failure. Methylene blue septic shock treatment counteracts vasodilation (the process of widening blood vessels) via nitric oxide inhibition, aiding blood pressure and the flow of blood. Methylene blue septic shock treatment is not FDA-approved. A 2001 study by Kirov et al. in Critical Care Medicine showed methylene blue increased arterial pressure in septic shock patients.

Yes, methylene blue has been shown to kill cancer cells and have anti-cancer effects in limited experimental studies. Methylene blue is not an FDA approved cure for cancer, it is an experimental treatment being researched that may not be effective in all cases. Methylene blue is a photosensitizer, meaning it can absorb light and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are highly reactive molecules containing oxygen. These ROS can damage and kill cancer cells. Methylene blue is used in photodynamic therapy (PDT), a medical treatment that uses light and a photosensitizing agent to destroy abnormal cells. When exposed to light, methylene blue generates ROS, which selectively targets and kills cancer cells according to research. dos Santos, A. F., et al. (2017). "Photodynamic therapy with methylene blue induces massive cell death in human breast cancer cell lines." BMC Cancer

According to studies, Methylene blue aids in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death), and enhancing the immune response against cancer cells. Methylene blue cancer research shows promise in breast cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. A 2019 abstract by Shanti et al., presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting, suggested methylene blue reduced prostate cancer cell growth in preclinical models.

Methylene blue skincare is a powerful antioxidant to help protect skin cells from oxidative stress, UV damage and increase cellular longevity, as well as aiding in wound healing as a powerful antimicrobial to help prevent infection from virus, bacteria and fungus. Methylene blue is added to skin creams and serums as a topical anti-aging treatment. 2017 by Xiong, ZM., O’Donovan, M., Sun, L. et al. Anti-Aging Potentials of Methylene Blue for Human Skin Longevity.

Methylene blue is highly effective in preventing skin aging according to research, both as a topical skin treatment and as a supplement. According to a study in 2021 by Huijing Xue Et al. Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, methylene blue has shown to be more effective than retinol and vitamin c in aiding the skin in appearing youthful working as a powerful antioxidant to fight of oxidative stress, while boosting collagen and elastin production to aid in reducing and preventing wrinkles. Oxidative stress is a major factor in signs of premature aging in skin. Methylene blue applied topically acts as an antioxidant in skin care, which is well accepted approach to delay the skin aging process

Methylene blue medical treatments are applied intravenously and must be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Methylene blue drops as an alternative health supplement can be taken in the following way under the advice of a healthcare advisor. Dosages can be split up morning and early afternoon. Avoid taking methylene blue drops at night as it may provide energy making it difficult to fall asleep at night.

1. Start with 1–5 drops (0.5–2.5 mg for a 1% solution) daily, mixed in water or juice, to assess tolerance.

2. Move to 10 drops (5mg) in a glass of water or juice daily by the end of week 1.

3. Work up to 10 drops twice a day (10mg) by the end of week 2.

4. Move up to 20mg if desired in week 3. 10-20 mg daily is the most common dosage for nootropic, antioxidant, and general health effects.

5. Continue increasing mg by 10mg per week if desired as advised by a healthcare provider. Doses above 5 mg/kg risk toxicity, including methemoglobinemia or serotonin syndrome, especially with serotonergic drugs.

The safe methylene blue dosage in humans ranges from .5 mg to 4 mg/kg (e.g. 280 mg per day for a 70 kg/154 lbs person) in intravenous medical procedures according to studies.

A 2023 review in StatPearls notes that doses exceeding 7 mg/kg IV can induce methemoglobinemia, particularly in G6PD-deficient individuals, and 5 mg/kg may risk serotonin syndrome, particularly when combined with serotonergic drugs. Methylene blue must be avoided by individuals with G6PD Deficiency, taking Serotonergic Drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs), or pregnancy and nursing to avoid complications. Watch for nausea, headache, overstimulation, sleep difficulties or dizziness and contact your healthcare provider if these occur.

The typical dosage of methylene blue drops for general health commonly cited as 10-20 mg a day. The maximum reported dosage for general health is 60–80 drops (30–40 mg/day), aligning with the lower end of 0.5 mg/kg for the average person.

Methylene blue drops are often sold as a 1% solution (10 mg/mL), where 1 drop contains 0.5 mg. Always check the product label for concentration levels and only use pharmaceutical grade (USP) methylene blue. A 2008 study in The FASEB Journal (Atamna et al.) found that low doses (0.5–4 mg/kg) in animals and humans stimulated mitochondrial function for enhanced cellular energy was well-tolerated.

Methylene blue dosage as low as 8 mg a day and up to 16 mg a day found promising results in brain health and slowed cognitive decline according to a study on 26 June 2022 by Claude M. Wischik in The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease.

Only use pharmaceutical-grade (USP) methylene blue, not industrial-grade, to avoid contaminants like heavy metals. Long-term safety at supplement doses lacks robust human data. There is no daily dosage established by the FDA.

To take methylene blue orally, add drops into 8 oz of water or juice and drink in the morning or early afternoon. Methylene blue taken at night may cause energy that makes it difficult to sleep. Dosages can be taken at once or split up between two daily servings. Methylene blue is sometimes ingested directly into the mouth to create a “blue tongue” effect for social media, but as a dye with a mild chemical taste, it is best diluted in liquid to avoid unpleasant taste, staining teeth or upsetting the stomach.

Methylene blue medical treatments are based on milligrams by kg of body weight by a doctor in a procedural setting. Methylene blue oral drops should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider, starting with 1-5 drops diluted in water daily to assess tolerance and avoid allergic reactions. Work up to 10 drops (5 mg) a day in the first week and if well tolerated, move up to 20 drops the following week. Continue scaling up by 10 drops per week until desired dosage is achieved. Discontinue use if you experience jitters, nausea, overstimulation, difficulty sleeping, headaches or other adverse reactions. Start methylene blue dosages low, monitor effects, and seek medical advice- especially with pre-existing conditions or medications.

Yes, you can take methylene blue daily in the proper dosages following the advice of a healthcare provider. Anecdotal supplement users (e.g., biohackers) report 0.5–10 mg/daily for cognitive health, energy and longevity. Methylene blue has not been studied for long term use (past 6 months) in daily supplementation. Some companies recommended 5 days on, 2 days off to maintain efficiency, though scientific studies are lacking. Only use pharmaceutical grade methylene blue and reduce dosage or discontinue use if symptoms occur such as headache, nausea, jitters, overstimulation or sleep disruption.

Patients taking LMTM (a methylene blue derivative) at 8 mg/day orally for 24 weeks found improved cognition was observed, with good tolerability at this low dose according to a study by Wischik, C. M., et al. (2017). "Tau aggregation inhibitor therapy: An exploratory phase 2 study of leuco-methylthioninium bis(hydromethanesulfonate) in mild or moderate Alzheimer’s disease." Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 58(4), 1049-1065.

A study by Walter-Sack, I., et al. (2009). "Pharmacokinetics of methylene blue after oral administration." European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 65(2), had healthy volunteers receive oral doses of 50–500 mg (higher than typical supplement range) to study absorption and elimination. According to the study, doses up to 500 mg were tolerated, though higher doses risked mild side effects, such as nausea. Daily low-dose extrapolation suggests 5–20 mg could be safe.

Take methylene blue drops by adding 1-5 drops to 8 oz of water or juice to assess tolerance. Move up to diluting 10 drops (5mg) into water or juice in the morning or early afternoon daily. Move up to 20 drops (10mg) if well tolerated and no adverse reactions occur. Dosages can be split up (10 drops in the morning, 10 drops in the early afternoon) if desired. Do not take methylene blue drops at night as it may create energy that makes it difficult to fall asleep at night.

The generally accepted dosage of methylene blue drops is 10 (5 mg) to 40 (20 mg) drops daily. It is important to know the concentration of methylene blue before determining how many drops to take, as dosage is determined by the concentration. Most methylene blue drops are in 1% concentration, where 1 drop equals 0.5 mg of methylene blue. The dosage of methylene blue drops depends on the intended use, starting out and maintenance. It is recommended to start with 1 to 5 drops a day to assess individual tolerance and allergic reactions, which are rare. Move up to 10 drops and if well tolerated, 20 drops the following week. Most individuals use between 5 mg to 10 mg daily for general health, cognitive support, mitochondrial support and beauty from within.

Methylene blue dosage between 16 drops (8 mg) a day and up to 32 drops (16 mg) daily found good results in brain health and slowed cognitive decline according to a study on 26 June 2022 by Claude M. Wischik in The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease.

Wischik et al. (2017, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease) delivered 8 mg/day of oral LMTM (a methylene blue derivative) to patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s for 24 weeks. The dosage was well-tolerated, with mild side effects (e.g., gastrointestinal upset), and showed cognitive benefits. For a 70 kg person, this is ~0.11 mg/kg/day.

Rodriguez et al. (2014, Journal of Psychopharmacology) gave healthy adults a single oral dose of 4 mg/kg, showing enhanced memory and brain connectivity with no acute adverse effects, however this was not a long term study of daily dosage.

The upper threshold for methylene blue according to Patel, P. N., & Zwissler, B. C. (2023 Statpearls) clinical observations were IV doses >7 mg/kg caused methemoglobinemia, and >5 mg/kg risked serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs. Oral doses from Walter-Sack (2009) up to 500 mg (7 mg/kg) showed increased side effects, suggesting 5 mg/kg (350 mg for 70 kg) as a cautionary limit for intake and is not recommended for long term use.

The conservative range of methylene blue drops based on body weight is 0.11–2 mg/kg/day.

For a 70 kg / 154 lb person, this is 8–140 mg/day which is 16–280 drops. Most supplement users start at 5–10 mg/day (10–20 drops, ~0.07–0.14 mg/kg), well within this range, and rarely exceed 20 mg/day (0.29 mg/kg) for longer term use.

Purchase methylene blue 1% drops online via the Era Organics website and is available at Amazon.com.