Methylene Blue Supplements Benefits: Safety & Dosage
“Low-dose methylene blue can increase functional MR imaging activity during sustained attention and short-term memory tasks and enhance memory retrieval” (Rodriguez et al., 2016).
This is the conclusion of a study by Rodriguez et al., in 2016. Recently, social media platforms like Reddit have seen a surge of lively discussions about Methylene Blue (MB) as a supplement.*
The topic has sparked a wave of debate, dividing opinions into three main groups: those who believe in MB's potential based on preliminary research and personal experiences, particularly in boosting cellular energy and slowing aging; skeptics who question these claims using established scientific reasoning; and a more neutral group observing with cautious interest*.
So what exactly are the benefits of Methylene Blue, how is it used, and why is it gaining so much attention in the supplement community? This article will explore all of these questions in detail.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Methylene Blue is a promising nootropic that may support cellular energy and brain health.
- It may help promote ATP production, support memory, reduce oxidative stress, and encourage healthy aging.
- Low-dose MB is generally safe, but should not be combined with serotonin-enhancing drugs.
- Choose products with clear dosing, pharmaceutical-grade quality, and verified testing.
What Is Methylene Blue as a Supplement?
Methylene blue (MB), also known as methylthioninium chloride, was first discovered in the 19th century and originally used as a dye in the textile industry. Due to its unique chemical properties, it was soon adopted in biology for staining tissue samples, bacteria, and blood cells [2].
In the context of dietary supplements, methylene blue is used in extremely low doses (microdosing).
Some studies have shown that at low doses, MB may act as a nootropic (a cognitive enhancer) or help improve mitochondrial function—the organelles responsible for energy production in cells (this will be further explained in the following section).
(*) Nootropic: Also known as "smart drugs," are a diverse group of substances that enhance cognitive functions such as thinking, learning, memory, and brain metabolism, particularly in cases where these functions are impaired.
However, to use methylene blue safely and effectively, it is important to distinguish between its pharmaceutical form and its dietary supplement form:
Pharmaceutical form: MB is commonly used to treat methemoglobinemia—a condition in which the blood cannot carry enough oxygen. It acts as a reducing agent, helping convert methemoglobin back into its normal hemoglobin form [4].
This form has high stability when formulated as an injection or through specialized delivery systems, and it can be stored at room temperature for several months [5].
Dietary supplement form: MB is commonly formulated as liquid drops, capsules, or tablets. However, compared to the pharmaceutical form, the stability of methylene blue in supplement products has not been extensively studied and may vary depending on the manufacturer's formulation methods.
Therefore, users should prioritize reputable brands that provide clear storage and quality standards.
Below is a summary table comparing the two forms of Methylene Blue:
|
Criteria |
Pharmaceutical Form |
Dietary Supplement Form |
|
Primary Use |
Treatment of methemoglobinemia – a condition in which blood cannot carry enough oxygen [4] |
Supports cognitive function (nootropic), enhances cellular energy (mitochondria) |
|
Mechanism of Action |
Acts as a reducing agent that converts methemoglobin back to hemoglobin, restoring oxygen transport in blood [4] |
May act as an electron carrier in mitochondria, reducing oxidative stress |
|
Dosage |
High (as prescribed by a doctor) |
Very low |
|
Common Formulations |
Injectable solution, hospital-grade liquid, specialized delivery systems |
Drops, capsules, tablets |
|
Stability |
High; remains stable for long periods if stored under proper medical conditions |
Depends on the manufacturer |
|
Regulatory Oversight |
Strictly regulated, prescription-based, and used under medical supervision |
Sold over the counter; users should choose reputable brands and read usage instructions carefully |
Key Benefits of Methylene Blue Supplements
Methylene Blue is currently being further researched for its potential benefits; however, the following are some of the most commonly mentioned benefits among the supplement user community.
Enhances cellular energy
Some studies suggest that methylene blue supports cellular energy by improving the efficiency of mitochondrial electron transport, potentially supporting cellular resilience under metabolic stress, particularly in brain cells [6,7].
Specifically, the study by F. Gonzalez-Lima & Auchter (2015) found that low-dose methylene blue can penetrate neuronal mitochondria and act as an electron carrier, thereby stimulating the electron transport chain. This mechanism helps to [6]:
-
Enhance cellular respiration (mitochondrial respiration)
-
Improve energy metabolism
-
Help maintain healthy brain cells and mitochondrial function
By 2020, Klosowski et al. further expanded our understanding of this mechanism and emphasized that MB plays a dual role: at appropriate doses, it enhances cellular energy metabolism by promoting electron transport in mitochondria [7].
However, when overdosed or used under improper conditions, MB may disrupt cellular function and negatively affect cell health [7].
Although methylene blue shows potential for boosting cellular energy, most of the current evidence comes from animal studies and preclinical models. More human clinical research is needed to clearly understand and confirm these benefits.
Improves brain health & focus
Some studies suggest that methylene blue (MB) may support brain health and enhance cognitive function, including focus, through various neuroprotective mechanisms.
For example, a study in mice showed that methylene blue may support gut-brain axis, which plays an important role in cognitive function, which is increasingly linked to brain health - an increasingly recognized factor in brain health—and potentially aid in improving cognitive function [8,9].
In a 2024 study using a mouse model, methylene blue (MB) was shown in animal studies to help maintain cognitive performance under oxidative stress conditions, and may help support memory and mental clarity [10]. However, more clinical studies in humans are still needed.
Antioxidant and anti-aging support
Methylene Blue (MB) is gaining attention as a powerful antioxidant with promising anti-aging effects, especially for the skin.
In a 2017 study, scientists found that MB may help protect skin cells by neutralizing harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are known to speed up aging [11].
It not only worked better than other common antioxidants but also supported healthy skin cell function in laboratory settings.
When tested on lab-grown human skin, MB improved skin hydration, thickness, wound healing, and was even associated with improved skin hydration and structural proteins in a lab model—two key proteins that keep skin firm and youthful [11].
Another study in 2023 further supported MB’s antioxidant abilities by showing that methylene blue-based metal compounds had strong antioxidant effects, similar to vitamin C. While this study focused on metal complexes, it highlights the broader potential of methylene blue and its derivatives in fighting oxidative stress—a major cause of aging [12]
However, most of the current evidence remains preclinical. Human results are limited and need to be confirmed through large-scale clinical studies.
Improves oxygen tolerance and supports physical performance.
With the previously mentioned benefits such as supporting cognitive function, memory, and reducing oxidative stress, a comprehensive 2023 review of randomized controlled trials found that these effects collectively may play a role in supporting mental clarity and focus [14].
Methylene blue (MB) may indirectly support physical performance by enhancing ATP production in mitochondria—already discussed in previous sections.
As ATP fuels muscular activity, this effect may be relevant to endurance and recovery, although current evidence remains limited and largely preclinical [15].
However, the existing evidence is limited and primarily comes from preclinical studies or small-scale clinical trials, and more human clinical research is needed.
What Does the Research Say?
|
Study / Year |
Study Subjects |
Reported Benefits |
Notes |
|
Protection against neurodegeneration with low-dose methylene blue and near-infrared light (Gonzalez-Lima & Auchter, 2015) |
Humans & animals (mice, disease models) |
- Supported memory performance and emotional regulation in a small human study - Increased oxygen consumption and ATP production - May help support healthy brain cell function |
Effects achieved through mitochondrial respiration enhancement using low-dose methylene blue and near-infrared light |
|
Methylene Blue Attenuates Impaired Cognitive Functions and Reduces Hippocampal Aβ Levels and Oxidative Stress in D-Galactose-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model (Kazkayasi & Telli, 2024) |
Mouse model |
- Improved performance in learning-related tasks in a preclinical model - Reduced oxidative stress markers- Increased antioxidant enzyme activity |
Methylene blue was administered at a low dose (2 mg/kg, orally) |
|
Anti‑Aging Potentials of Methylene Blue for Human Skin Longevity (Xiong et al., 2017) |
- Human skin fibroblasts- 3D human skin equivalents (EpiDerm) |
- Stimulated cell proliferation, reduced aging markers in elderly human cells - Enhanced skin tissue viability, increased dermal thickness, improved moisture retention |
- Dose used: 100 nM MB in 2D culture for 4 weeks- Results in 3D skin model showed positive effects on skin structure and function |
|
Mitochondrial Targeted Antioxidant in Cerebral Ischemia (Ahmed et al., 2015) |
Review summarizing multiple studies in animals (mice, stroke models) and in vitro (neuronal cells) |
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier and accumulates in mitochondria - Increases ATP production - Reduces ROS - Suggested mitochondrial and oxidative support for brain cells in lab models |
Promising potential, but more clinical evidence is needed |
Limitations of the studies:
Although the above studies demonstrate the neuroprotective and anti-aging potential of methylene blue, most findings are based on animal models, in vitro experiments, or small-scale studies.
Its clinical effects in humans remain limited and have yet to be confirmed through large, long-term, placebo-controlled trials.
Is Methylene Blue Safe as a Supplement?
For Methylene Blue in supplement form, microdosing in the range of 0.5–4 mg/kg is generally considered safe (Evora et al., 2014).
However, there are several precautions to keep in mind, such as avoiding overdose and not using it during pregnancy, lactation, or in individuals undergoing medical treatment.
Methylene Blue may interact with serotonin-enhancing medications due to its MAO-inhibiting properties. Combining them may lead to serotonin syndrome — a potentially serious reaction if not properly managed.
Methylene Blue may participate in redox reactions (such as with vitamin C) and interfere with certain laboratory tests. Therefore, if used as a supplement, potential interactions with other antioxidants should be carefully considered [17].
Although generally considered safe, Methylene Blue supplements may cause some side effects such as:
-
Serotonin syndrome: May occur when Methylene Blue is taken with serotonin-enhancing medications due to its MAO-inhibiting properties; this is one of the most commonly reported side effects [18].
-
Hemolysis: May occur in individuals with G6PD deficiency — rare but serious [19].
-
Discolored urine (chromaturia): Urine may temporarily turn blue; this effect is harmless [18].
-
Topical staining: May cause blue discoloration of skin or clothing when applied topically; not harmful but may affect appearance.
Be mindful of your health condition and consult a healthcare professional before using any supplement.
How to Choose a Quality Methylene Blue Supplement
When choosing a Methylene Blue (MB) product for use as a dietary supplement, you should consider the following criteria to ensure safety and effectiveness:
-
Clear dosage information: The product should clearly state the amount of MB per serving (usually in micrograms or milligrams) to help you manage intake effectively.
-
Reputable brand: Choose manufacturers that are transparent about sourcing, testing, and production standards.
-
Positive user feedback: Prefer products with strong reviews and real-world usage experiences shared by the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you feel after taking methylene blue?
After taking methylene blue, some people may experience mild and temporary side effects, the most common being blue or green discoloration of urine. This effect is harmless and usually fades over time [23].
At low doses, methylene blue is considered safe and well-tolerated. Controlled studies have shown that it does not cause discomfort or serious systemic side effects [24].
2. Is it safe to take methylene blue every day?
If you're using methylene blue as a dietary supplement, make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage. For medical purposes, you must strictly follow your doctor's guidance. Intravenous use of methylene blue should not be done regularly and must never be self-administered, as it can lead to serious and unexpected side effects.
3. What does methylene blue do to the brain?
Methylene blue is considered a promising nootropic that may help support brain function and mitochondrial activity. Some preclinical studies suggest it may promote mental clarity and focus when used at low doses.
4. How long does it take methylene blue to work?
Methylene blue acts quickly, with effects typically appearing within a few minutes to an hour after use [25], although the exact timing depends on various factors such as individual physiology.
5. What not to take with methylene blue?
Avoid combining methylene blue with serotonergic antidepressants, other MAO inhibitors, or acetylcholinesterase inhibitors without medical supervision, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome and enhanced cholinergic effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before using methylene blue alongside other medications.
Conclusion
Methylene Blue in supplement form may offer support for overall brain and cellular health, particularly in enhancing cellular function, promoting mitochondrial energy and helping support aspects of cognitive performance, such as focus and mental clarity.
While early studies are encouraging, MB should still be used with caution. Users are advised to choose high-quality products, understand proper dosing, and most importantly, consult a healthcare professional before adding it to their daily routine. Being well-informed will help you gain the benefits while avoiding unnecessary risks.
Testimonial Disclaimer
*The testimonials presented on this website are provided by individuals based on their personal experiences with our products. These testimonials represent individual opinions and experiences, which may not be typical or applicable to all users of our products. Results may vary depending on a variety of factors, including individual health, lifestyle, and adherence to product usage instructions.References
- [1] Rodriguez, P., Zhou, W., Barrett, D. W., Altmeyer, W., Gutierrez, J. E., Li, J., Lancaster, J. L., Gonzalez-Lima, F., & Duong, T. Q. (2016). Multimodal Randomized Functional MR Imaging of the Effects of Methylene Blue in the Human Brain. Radiology, 281(2), 516–526. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2016152893
- [2] Howland, R. H. (2016). Methylene Blue: The Long and Winding Road from Stain to Brain: Part 1. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54(9), 21–24. https://doi.org/10.3928/02793695-20160818-01
- [3] Malík, M., & Tlustoš, P. (2022). Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients, 14(16), 3367. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163367
- [4] Smith, B. A., Robinson, R., & Most, A. K. (2025). From Theory to Therapy: Methylene Blue’s Emerging Role in the Management of Septic Shock. Journal of Pharmacy Practice. https://doi.org/10.1177/08971900251350554
- [5] Camila Barros Galinari, Tiago de Paula Biachi, Renato Sonchini Gonçalves, Gabriel Batista Cesar, Eduardo Victor Bergmann, Luis Carlos Malacarne, Érika Seki Kioshima Cotica, Patrícia de Souza Bonfim-Mendonça & Terezinha Inez Estivalet Svidzinski. (2023) Photoactivity of hypericin: from natural product to antifungal application. Critical Reviews in Microbiology 49:1, pages 38-56.
- [6] Gonzalez-Lima, F., & Auchter, A. (2015). Protection against neurodegeneration with low-dose methylene blue and near-infrared light. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2015.00179
- [7] Klosowski, E. M., de Souza, B. T. L., Mito, M. S., Constantin, R. P., Mantovanelli, G. C., Mewes, J. M., Bizerra, P. F. V., Menezes, P. V. M. da C., Gilglioni, E. H., Utsunomiya, K. S., Marchiosi, R., dos Santos, W. D., Filho, O. F., Caetano, W., Pereira, P. C. de S., Gonçalves, R. S., Constantin, J., Ishii-Iwamoto, E. L., & Constantin, R. P. (2020). The photodynamic and direct actions of methylene blue on mitochondrial energy metabolism: A balance of the useful and harmful effects of this photosensitizer. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 153, 34–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.04.015
- [8] Morin, T. M., Allan, N., Coutts, J., Hooker, J. M., Langille, M., Metcalfe, A., Thamboo, A., Jackson, J., Sharma, M., Rees, T., Enright, K., & Irving, K. (2024). Laminar Fluid Ejection for Olfactory Drug Delivery: A Proof of Concept Study. IEEE Journal of Translational Engineering in Health and Medicine, 12, 727–738. https://doi.org/10.1109/jtehm.2024.3503498
- [9] Liu, Y., Tan, Y., Cheng, G., Ni, Y., Xie, A., Zhu, X., Yin, C., Zhang, Y., & Chen, T. (2024). Customized Intranasal Hydrogel Delivering Methylene Blue Ameliorates Cognitive Dysfunction against Alzheimer’s Disease. Advanced Materials, 36(19). https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202307081
- [10] I. Kazkayasi, & G. Telli. (2024). Methylene Blue Attenuates Impaired Cognitive Functions and Reduces Hippocampal Aβ Levels and Oxidative Stress in D-Galactose-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model. Biology Bulletin, 51(3), 700–710. https://doi.org/10.1134/s106235902360455x
- [11] Xiong, Z.-M., O’Donovan, M., Sun, L., Choi, J. Y., Ren, M., & Cao, K. (2017). Anti-Aging Potentials of Methylene Blue for Human Skin Longevity. Scientific Reports, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-02419-3
- [12] Abdel-Rahman, L. H., Basha, M. T., Badriah Saad Al-Farhan, Alharbi, W., Shehata, M. R., Zamil, A., & Doaa Abou El-ezz. (2023). Synthesis, Characterization, DFT Studies of Novel Cu(II), Zn(II), VO(II), Cr(III), and La(III) Chloro-Substituted Schiff Base Complexes: Aspects of Its Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Photodegradation of Methylene Blue. Molecules, 28(12), 4777–4777. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28124777
- [14] Hashmi, M. U., Ahmed, R., Mahmoud, S., Ahmed, K., Bushra, N. M., Ahmed, A., Batran Elwadie, Amna Madni, Saad, A. B., & Abdelrahman, N. (2023). Exploring Methylene Blue and Its Derivatives in Alzheimer’s Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Randomized Control Trials. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.46732
- [15] Ahmed, E., Donovan, T., Yujiao, L., & Zhang, Q. (2015). Mitochondrial Targeted Antioxidant in Cerebral Ischemia. Journal of Neurology and Neuroscience, 06(02). https://doi.org/10.21767/2171-6625.100017
- [16] Evora, P. R. B., Alves Junior, L., Ferreira, C. A., Menardi, A. C., Bassetto, S., Rodrigues, A. J., Scorzoni Filho, A., & Vicente, W. V. de A. (2014). Twenty years of vasoplegic syndrome treatment in heart surgery. Methylene blue revised. Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Cardiovascular. https://doi.org/10.5935/1678-9741.20140115
- [17] Permana, B., Ronauli, D., & Nugrahani, I. (2021). Development and Validation of Spectrofluorometric Method for the Determination of Ascorbic Acid in Several Dosage Forms by Using Methylene Blue. Acta Pharmaceutica Indonesia, 46(1), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.5614/api.v46i1.14917
- [18] Wahyu Mananda, Anggraini, D., Puguh Oktavian, Budi, D. S., El, C., & Citrawati Dyah Kencono Wungu. (2025). The effect of hydroxocobalamin and methylene blue for vasoplegic syndromes: A systematic review. Electronic Journal of General Medicine, 22(1), em622–em622. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejgm/15850
- [19] Atin, M. (2018). Blue Food Dye in Colon Polyp Detection. Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, 2(4), 195–196. https://doi.org/10.1093/jcag/gwy037
- [23] Alkhateeb, W., Luthra, G., Almatroud, L., Saleh, A., & Landa, E. (2024). From Poppers to Peril: Recreational Nitrite-Induced Methemoglobinemia. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.67435
- [24] Adrielle Ferreira Gebrim, Franco, A. G., Garcia, U., Maximiano, R. M., & Angélica, S. (2025). EFICÁCIA DA TERAPIA FOTODINÂMICA NO TRATAMENTO DA HERPES SIMPLES TIPO I. LUMEN et VIRTUS, 16(49), 7898–7911. https://doi.org/10.56238/levv16n49-116
- [25] Law, S. K., Wing, A., & Xu, C. (2023). Photodynamic Action of Curcumin and Methylene Blue against Bacteria and SARS-CoV-2—A Review. Pharmaceuticals, 17(1), 34–34. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17010034
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