Nootropic

Methylene Blue

Half-life

~5–6 hours

What is Methylene Blue?

Pharmaceutical-grade mitochondrial electron carrier and cognitive enhancer. Hormetic at low doses.

How Methylene Blue works

At low doses, acts as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain at Complex I–IV, bypassing damaged enzyme complexes and improving ATP production. Also inhibits monoamine oxidase at low doses (MAOI activity).

Benefits & uses

Common uses: Mitochondrial function, cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, dementia research, UTI treatment.

Methylene Blue dosage

Typical dose: Low-dose cognitive: 0.5–4 mg/kg. CONTRAINDICATED with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs (serotonin syndrome). Pharmaceutical grade only.

Methylene Blue half-life

~5–6 hours (plasma)

Methylene Blue side effects

Turns urine blue (harmless). Serotonin syndrome risk with SSRIs/MAOIs. Photosensitivity.

Blue/green urine and feces (harmless)
ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATION with SSRIs, MAOIs, SNRIs — serotonin syndrome risk
Photosensitivity
G6PD deficiency: hemolytic anemia risk

Methylene Blue interactions

with SSRI
Avoid · severe
Methylene blue is a potent MAOI; combined with serotonergic agents it causes serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, autonomic instability).
Timing: Never combine — wait 5 weeks after SSRI cessation

Track Methylene Blue in Protokol.

Log doses, model half-lives, check interactions, and line it all up against your bloodwork. Free on iPhone and Android.