Methylene blue Online
Brand names: ProvayBlue
Methylene blue is a blue dye and medication that has been used for over a century. Its FDA-approved use (as ProvayBlue, given by IV in hospitals) is treating methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder that stops red blood cells from carrying oxygen. Longevity and wellness telehealth providers prescribe low-dose oral methylene blue off-label for energy, cognition, and 'mitochondrial support.' Those uses rest mostly on lab and animal research plus a few small human studies.
Prices last checked
* Prices are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Verify directly with the provider.
How Methylene blue Works
Methylene blue can accept and pass on electrons inside mitochondria, the parts of cells that make energy, which in lab studies can help cells keep producing energy when the normal chain is impaired. It also has antioxidant effects and inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme that breaks down serotonin and other brain chemicals. That MAO-inhibiting effect is why it interacts dangerously with antidepressants. Small human studies have reported short-term improvements in memory tasks at low doses, but there are no large trials showing benefits for aging, energy, or long-term brain health.
What to Expect
Low-dose oral methylene blue is usually taken daily as a capsule, troche, or liquid. Some people report feeling an effect on alertness within days, but there is no established timeline for longer-term benefits, because none has been proven.
Methylene blue Pricing Comparison
Sorted by lowest starting price.
Prices shown are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Telehealth providers update their pricing frequently. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
| Provider | Score | Product | Price/mo | Includes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heally | 64 | Methylene Blue | $75 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Lttl | 66 | Methylene Blue | $79 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Healthspan | 71 | Methylene Blue | $99 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
| Invigor Medical | 62 | Methylene Blue | $225 checked | ● Consults● Shipping○ Labs | Visit |
Common Side Effects
- •Blue or green urine (harmless and expected)
- •Blue discoloration of the tongue or mouth
- •Nausea or stomach upset
- •Headache
- •Dizziness
Serious Side Effects
- !Serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, or other serotonergic drugs (an FDA boxed warning); symptoms include confusion, fever, rapid heart rate, and muscle twitching, and it needs emergency care
- !Hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells) in people with G6PD deficiency
- !Allergic reactions
- !At high doses, it can paradoxically cause methemoglobinemia
Methylene blue Is Not For
- ✗Anyone taking SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, bupropion, buspirone, tramadol, triptans, or other serotonergic drugs, unless their prescriber has specifically cleared it
- ✗People with G6PD deficiency
- ✗Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding
- ✗People with significant kidney disease
Methylene blue — Frequently Asked Questions
Is methylene blue FDA-approved?
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Yes, but only as an IV drug (ProvayBlue) to treat methemoglobinemia in a hospital. Daily low-dose oral methylene blue for energy, cognition, or longevity is off-label. Products sold online as supplements are not regulated as drugs, and some aren't pharmaceutical grade.
Can I take methylene blue with antidepressants?
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Generally no. Methylene blue inhibits MAO, and combining it with SSRIs, SNRIs, and other serotonergic drugs can cause serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. The FDA has a boxed warning about this combination. Tell your prescriber about every medication you take, including migraine drugs and pain medications such as tramadol.
Does methylene blue improve memory or slow aging?
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Not proven. Lab and animal studies are interesting, and a few small human studies found short-term improvements on memory tests. A large trial of a related compound in Alzheimer's disease did not show clear benefit. There is no good human evidence that it slows aging.
Why does methylene blue turn urine blue?
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The dye is filtered out by the kidneys, so urine turns blue or green, usually within hours. This is harmless and expected, though it can be alarming the first time.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.Methylene blue requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Side effects, risks, and suitability vary by individual. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Telehealth Match is not a healthcare provider.
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