Methylene Blue

Uses

Methylene Blue is used in the treatment of depression and methemoglobinemia.

How it Works

How Methylene Blue Works Methylene blue functions as a reducing agent, converting methemoglobin back to hemoglobin. In red blood cells, it is reduced to leucomethylene blue through a reaction with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in the presence of the enzyme NADPH reductase. Leucomethylene blue then reduces methemoglobin to hemoglobin, restoring the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin. This process is beneficial in the treatment of methemoglobinemia.

Expert Advice

Methylene Blue is prescribed for the treatment of methemoglobinemia (blood disorders).
Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in mental status or neuromuscular symptoms, with or without gastrointestinal symptoms.
It is advisable to take protective measures against exposure to light, as phototoxicity (sensitivity to light) may occur after the administration of Methylene Blue.