Methylene Blue: New Trend or Health Risk?

Methylene Blue (MB), also known as methylthioninium chloride, is being promoted as an "anti-aging elixir" and "brain food," raising concerns among experts.

The trend was sparked by a video featuring Robert Kennedy Jr., followed by statements from celebrities such as Joe Rogan and Gabby Reece, who claim to be taking the substance to improve mood and cognitive performance.

Professor of Pharmacy at the University of Nicosia, Christos Petrou, explains that Methylene Blue is an old synthetic dye with uses in clinical medicine, but warns of the risks when marketed as a cognitive enhancer or alternative treatment for COVID-19.

Experts warn of serious side effects, including serotonin syndrome, hemolytic crisis, hypertensive crisis, and teratogenesis during pregnancy. They point out that although Methylene Blue has approved medical uses, it has not been approved as a cognitive function enhancer.

Mr. Petrou emphasizes that its use without medical supervision can lead to seizures, destruction of red blood cells, and neurological symptoms. He recommends avoiding self-medication via the internet and warns that pregnant women, people on chronic medication, or those with hereditary blood disorders are at increased risk of complications.

Experts advise against taking Methylene Blue for "energy" or "blood purification," as it is a pharmaceutical substance with specific indications and requires medical guidance.