Methylene Blue
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.
Expert Evidence
3 references from 2 experts
“I don't recommend methylene blue to my patients at this point. We simply don't have good data in the form of human randomized clinical trials to know their proper effects in humans.”
The Surprising Truth About Methylene Blue and Anti-Aging
6:462 references in 1 episode from 2025
Brad Stanfield recommends against methylene blue, citing a lack of human randomized clinical trials to support its use. He also warns it can cause serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with other medications. No evidence of personal use, dosing guidance, or specific benefits discussed.
“I don't take methylene blue. I avoided it for two reasons. I saw the images of blue brains from people who had recently taken it, and there are some data that methylene blue can intercalate into DNA and possibly cause some mutations. If people are generally healthy, it can cause more problems than it solves.”
Improve Energy & Longevity by Optimizing Mitochondria | Dr. Martin Picard
2:35:111 reference in 1 episode from 2025
Huberman does not take methylene blue and recommends against it. He cites two concerns: images of blue-stained brains from recent users, and data suggesting methylene blue can intercalate into DNA and potentially cause mutations. He warns that for generally healthy people, it may cause more problems than it solves. No dosing guidance, personal use history, or specific benefits are discussed.
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