What methylene blue can (and can’t) do for the brain
a year ago
- #neuroscience
- #health
- #supplements
- Methylene blue is a 19th-century drug used to treat methemoglobinemia and has antimicrobial properties.
- It acts as a MAO inhibitor, mitochondrial helper, and nitric oxide blocker, affecting neurotransmitters and cellular energy production.
- Methylene blue has a hormetic effect: beneficial at low doses but harmful at high doses.
- Animal studies show potential benefits for depression, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's, but human studies are limited and inconclusive.
- Phase III trials for Alzheimer's treatment failed to show positive effects despite earlier promising results.
- Side effects include blue urine, nausea, headaches, and serious risks like hemolytic anemia and serotonin syndrome.
- Safe and effective doses for healthy individuals are not established, and supplements are poorly regulated.
- Despite risks, research continues into methylene blue's potential therapeutic uses.