Dr. Scott Scherr addresses the misconceptions surrounding methylene blue, emphasizing its safety when used in appropriate oral doses rather than excessive levels.
The podcast highlights the rare risk of serotonin syndrome associated with methylene blue, advocating for consultation with healthcare professionals for safe medication transitions.
Dr. Scherr discusses the potential of methylene blue to enhance mitochondrial function and its historical use as an effective anti-infective treatment amid rising antibiotic resistance.
Deep dives
Methylene Blue Myths Debunked
The episode addresses common myths surrounding methylene blue, particularly the idea that it can permanently turn your brain blue. Dr. Scott Schur explains that the claims arise from misinterpretations of studies that involved extremely high doses of methylene blue administered intravenously. He clarifies that typical dosing, particularly in the orally taken form, leads to significant benefits without the risk of such harmful side effects. By using reliable dosages, listeners can safely incorporate this supplement without fearing drastic changes.
Understanding Serotonin Syndrome
The podcast delves into the potential risk of serotonin syndrome when taking methylene blue alongside other serotonergic medications. Dr. Schur points out that serotonin syndrome is extremely rare, particularly with low oral doses of methylene blue. He emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare professional when combining it with SSRIs but reassures listeners that appropriate management can safely allow patients to transition off these medications. His clinical experience supports that methylene blue can actually enhance mood and assist in reducing reliance on traditional antidepressants.
Mitochondrial Function and Methylene Blue
Dr. Schur discusses how methylene blue can enhance mitochondrial function, which is crucial for energy production in the body. He explains that low doses can help healthy individuals optimize their mitochondria, while those with metabolic dysfunction may require higher initial dosages to reinvigorate energy levels effectively. The conversation emphasizes that most people could benefit from using methylene blue, particularly given that a significant percentage of adults have some form of mitochondrial dysfunction. Tailoring doses according to individual health statuses is key for optimal results while avoiding harmful effects.
Methylene Blue as an Anti-Infective Agent
The episode highlights the historical use of methylene blue as an anti-infective treatment, dating back to its first indication for malaria in the late 19th century. Dr. Schur emphasizes that due to rising bacterial resistance to traditional antibiotics, methylene blue is regaining recognition for its efficacy against infections, including viral illnesses. He shares anecdotes from his clinical practice showing how patients have successfully used it to combat infections, often in conjunction with other supportive measures. The use of methylene blue can be particularly beneficial when addressing acute infections where traditional methods may not suffice.
Impact on Nitric Oxide Production
Dr. Schur clarifies that methylene blue affects nitric oxide levels in the body, particularly by inhibiting the inducible nitric oxide synthase at low doses. This can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure, which is often preferred in situations of infection and trauma. Low doses do not negatively impact the endogenous nitric oxide that plays important roles in vascular health and mitochondrial function. Understanding this dual effect can help users optimize their health outcomes while avoiding complications often feared by skeptics.
Practical Use and Dosage Suggestions
Listeners are guided on practical dosing recommendations for methylene blue under varying circumstances. Dr. Schur suggests starting at lower doses for most individuals, typically between four to sixteen milligrams, while ensuring a personalized approach based on one's health condition. Awoiding higher, sustained dosages can mitigate the risks of potential negative side effects while still providing the intended benefits. This practical advice sheds light on how to incorporate methylene blue into daily routines effectively, especially in the context of travel and infection prevention.
Recently there has been a plethora of articles painting the popular supplement methylene blue in a bad light. Some of the claims include: its synthetic so that makes it unsafe, it will stain your brain permanently blue, it will cause excessive serotonin in the brain, and that it could decrease mitochondrial function in people with healthy mitochondria, or that it can inhibit nitric oxide.
Dr Scott Sherr, COO of Troscriptions, returns to the show to debunk these arguments using sound science and reason. I have been ingesting methylene blue for five years now with some breaks and I have experienced zero negative side effects, both short or long term. Fear and sensationalism gets engagement and it also provides an opportunity to deepen the conversation with more context which Scott does in this episode.
