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    Methylene Blue

    Morning with food

    Methylene blue is a synthetic compound originally developed as a textile dye in 1876, later adopted in medicine as a treatment for methemoglobinemia and malaria. At very low doses (0.5–2 mg/kg), it acts as an electron carrier in mitochondria and has been investigated for potential cognitive and neuroprotective effects. It remains primarily a pharmaceutical agent with limited evidence supporting its use as a general supplement.

    Gil Carvalho
    Gil CarvalhoStopped
    Research Evidence
    Treats methemoglobinemia as an FDA-approved medical intervention
    Strong
    May improve short-term memory and attention in healthy adults
    Limited
    Potential neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative disease models
    Limited
    May enhance mitochondrial electron transport and cellular energy production at low doses
    Moderate
    Antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum
    Moderate
    Source: Examine.com

    Expert Evidence

    15 references from 3 experts

    “Methylene blue can act as a smart drug. It can improve your mind, your memory, and your learning.”

    Can Methylene Blue supercharge your brain?

    0:04
    2025
    Safety & Cautions

    Side Effects

    • Blue-green discoloration of urine and body fluids
    • Gastrointestinal upset and nausea
    • Risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic medications
    • Potential DNA intercalation at higher doses
    • Skin and oral staining
    Methylene blue carries serious drug interaction risks, particularly serotonin syndrome when taken with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, or other serotonergic agents. Multiple medical experts have expressed reservations about supplemental use given the lack of robust human randomized controlled trials and concerns about mutagenic potential from DNA intercalation.
    Pairs Well With
    CoQ10