Methylene Blue
What is Methylene Blue USP grade?
Methylene Blue USP grade is a high-purity powder or liquid form of methylene blue that meets the standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). It's a synthetic compound utilized for various purposes, including as a dye, medication, and research tool. Methylene Blue USP grade is available in diverse forms like powder, liquid, and capsules and is employed for a myriad of applications such as staining biological samples, treating methemoglobinemia, and enhancing cognitive function (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Dosage
The dosage of Methylene Blue USP grade depends on its purpose and product form. For instance, a 1% methylene blue solution can be concocted by combining 1 gram of the powder with 100 milliliters of water. To treat methemoglobinemia, the suggested dose is 1-2 mg/kg of body weight, given intravenously over 5-10 minutes. The dosage for cognitive function improvement hasn't been firmly established, but research has explored doses between 15-60 mg/day (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Side Effects
Methylene Blue USP grade, when used as directed, is generally considered safe. However, it might lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and confusion. Rarely, it can induce severe side effects like methemoglobinemia, a condition decreasing blood oxygen levels. It's essential for those taking methylene blue to have their health closely monitored by a physician (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Interactions
Methylene Blue USP grade can have interactions with various drugs, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and certain antibiotics. Anyone on methylene blue should communicate to their doctor about all medications they are currently taking to sidestep potential interactions (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Time of Day and With or Without Food
The intake timing for methylene blue is contingent upon its intended use and the product's form. For instance, a 1% methylene blue solution can be ingested at any time. Depending on personal preference, the product can be taken with or without food (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
Human Studies
Methylene Blue USP grade has been subjected to extensive human studies for various applications, like as a methemoglobinemia medication and cognitive enhancer. Nonetheless, additional research is requisite to comprehensively understand its potential benefits and risks across different groups and conditions (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6).
To recap, Methylene Blue USP grade is a high-purity form of methylene blue compliant with USP standards. It has manifold uses, from staining biological specimens to treatment and cognitive enhancement. The dosage, potential side effects, and interactions are largely dependent on its usage and form. Although extensively studied in humans, further investigation is needed to wholly discern its benefits and risks.
Citations:
(1) https://ufcbio.com/products/methylene-blue-usp-99-9
(2) https://www.bphchem.com/product/methylene-blue-1-usp-grade-60-ml-1-drop-contains-0-5-mg-of-methylene-blue/
(3) https://www.macsenlab.com/product/buy-methylene-blue-powder/
(4) https://compasslaboratory.com/products/methylene-blue-1-usp-grade-methylthioninium-chloride-liquid-high-purity-dietary-supplement-for-brain-function-cognitive-health-no-formaldehyde-150ml-glass-dropper-bottle
(5) https://store.usp.org/product/1428008
(6) https://www.amazon.com/Methylene-Blue-Pharmaceutical-Grade-Solution/dp/B0BC2GGYYS