Methylene blue, a compound used to treat a blood disorder called methemoglobinemia, has a reputation for being a cognitive and mitochondrial enhancer. It is now being used to support patient’s with Alzheimer Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and in addition to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and even Lyme Disease. It can be given as a sublingual lozenger, liquid and intravenously administered
Some researchers believe that it can directly improve cellular and mitochondrial function and decrease the production of proteins linked to Alzheimer’s. It is also being studied for its potential to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), nitric oxide (NO) synthase, and guanylate cyclase
At low doses, methylene blue (MB) has been shown to protect the brain from disease by acting as an electron donor to complex I-IV of the mitochondria which increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. ATP is the currency of life and the energy that powers humans. If our production of ATP declines, our physical and mental performance declines. Even healthy individuals can benefit from a boost in ATP production The MB is picked up by the mitochondria. Where are mitochondria present ? Mitochondria are present in every cell of the body. These organelles are called the Powerhouse of the Cell. The brain and heart contain the abundance of mitochondria
It should be carefully monitored as high concentrations, MB can promoteoxidative stress. Therefore, it is expected that low MB doses or concentrations will be, in general, more effective than large ones at facilitating physiological effects within mitochondria
Methylene blue has not been approved by the FDA for the purpose of cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, or any medical purpose other than methemoglobinemia. Methylene blue was used in the 1800’s to treat malaria
The dose varies from 1 - 4 mg/kg/ I usually recommend starting at 1 mg/ kg and titrating the dose up. Various studies have used between 1 and 4 mg/kg, depending on the sourceMost side effects of MB appear to be dose-dependent and have not occurred with doses of less than 2 mg/ kg, a dose range that is widely used in clinical trials
You cannot be on an SSRI drug if you are to start methylene blue It is relatively contraindicated in G6PD deficient patients as it can cause severe hemolysis ( breakdown or bursting of cells )