Methylene Blue

Generic Name: methylene blue

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Methylene Blue

Methylene blue injection is an oxidation-reduction agent indicated for the treatment of pediatric and adult patients with acquired methemoglobinemia. Each mL contains 5 mg methylene blue in water for injection.

Overview

Methylene blue injection is an oxidation-reduction agent indicated for the treatment of pediatric and adult patients with acquired methemoglobinemia. Each mL contains 5 mg methylene blue in water for injection.

Uses

Indicated for the treatment of pediatric and adult patients with acquired methemoglobinemia.

Dosage

Administer 1 mg/kg intravenously over 5-30 minutes. If methemoglobin levels remain above 30%, a repeat dose of 1 mg/kg may be given one hour after the first dose. For renal impairment, administer only a single 1 mg/kg dose.

Side Effects

Most common reactions (2% or greater): headache, hypokalemia, diarrhea, hypomagnesemia, myoclonus, nausea, and seizure-like phenomena. Other serious reactions include hemolytic anemia and serotonin syndrome.

Interactions

Avoid concomitant use with medicinal products that enhance serotonergic transmission including antidepressants like SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, bupropion, buspirone, opioids, and dextromethorphan.

Warnings

Black box warning: May cause serious or fatal serotonin syndrome when used in combination with serotonergic drugs and opioids. Avoid concomitant use with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs and opioids. Risk of hemolytic anemia in G6PD patients. Interference with pulse oximetry. Contraindicated in severe hypersensitivity to methylene blue and in patients with G6PD deficiency.

Pregnancy

May cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Intra-amniotic injection was associated with neonatal intestinal atresia and fetal death. Discontinue breast-feeding for up to 8 days after treatment.

Storage

Store at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep vials in original packaging to protect from light.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Methylene Blue used for?

Indicated for the treatment of pediatric and adult patients with acquired methemoglobinemia.

What are the side effects of Methylene Blue?

Most common reactions (2% or greater): headache, hypokalemia, diarrhea, hypomagnesemia, myoclonus, nausea, and seizure-like phenomena. Other serious reactions include hemolytic anemia and serotonin syndrome.

Can I take Methylene Blue during pregnancy?

May cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Intra-amniotic injection was associated with neonatal intestinal atresia and fetal death. Discontinue breast-feeding for up to 8 days after treatment.

What are the important warnings for Methylene Blue?

Black box warning: May cause serious or fatal serotonin syndrome when used in combination with serotonergic drugs and opioids. Avoid concomitant use with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs and opioids. Risk of hemolytic anemia in G6PD patients. Interference with pulse oximetry. Contraindicated in severe hypersensitivity to methylene blue and in patients with G6PD deficiency.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.