Methylene Blue is a synthetic dye that has some use in the medical field. Originally developed as a drug for treating malaria, it is now used in the treatment of septic shock and methemoglobinemia.
Many people are currently advocating for the use of methylene blue as a supplement to support brain health and for other anti-aging benefits, however, these claims remain unverified. In fact, a recent study showed that participants taking methylene blue experienced a decrease in cerebral blood flow.
In high doses, methylene blue has been shown to cause cardiac arrhythmia and renal failure. Other possible side effects include GI upset, headache, and anemia. If taken during pregnancy, methylene blue has been shown to cause fetal abnormalities.
Methylene blue also increases the risk for developing serotonin syndrome, which, if left untreated, can lead to death.
Ultimately, the risks associated with supplementing methylene blue outweigh the potential benefits.
References: Poisoning and Drug Overdose, 8e. 2022 Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism. 2023 Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology. 2010 Oct-Dec;26(4)
Harvard Health Publishing. 2025
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