Thread by @bensmithlive

Everyone talks about METHYLENE BLUE'S amazing benefits—but few discuss its hidden risks:

• Gut bacteria die-off
• MAOI disruption
• Dopaminergic overstimulation

Here's the complete truth about MB: 🧵

For context, methylene Blue (MB) has exploded in biohacking circles for its mitochondrial and cognitive benefits.

Originally created as a textile dye in 1876, it's now recognised for its role as an alternative electron carrier in mitochondria.

Scientific studies have proven MB's cognitive effects and it’s antimicrobial powers (it was one of the earliest antimalarial drugs).

But here are the risk-factors you should be aware of:

1) The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction

When MB rapidly kills bacteria, they release endotoxins faster than your body can clear them.

This causes temporary inflammatory responses that manifest as "die-off" symptoms.

Herxheimer reactions from MB can include:

• Headaches
• Debilitating fatigue
• Nausea
• Brain fog
• Flu-like symptoms
• Muscle aches
• Fever or chills

These symptoms are documented in Lyme disease treatment literature.

2) MB's role as a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI).

Studies confirm MB is a potent reversible inhibitor of MAO-A, which normally breaks down serotonin and other neurotransmitters.

By blocking this enzyme, MB increases serotonin levels.

This MAOI activity creates a serious danger: combining MB with serotonergic drugs can trigger serotonin syndrome.

The FDA has issued explicit warnings about this interaction, citing severe CNS reactions when MB is given to patients on psychiatric medications.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:

• Mental status changes (confusion, agitation)
• Neuromuscular abnormalities (tremor, muscle rigidity)
• Autonomic instability (sweating, fever)
• High blood pressure
• Seizures

Medical literature includes fatal cases.

3) MB with dopaminergic substances.

If MB is combined with L-DOPA, selegiline, or stimulants (Adderall), it can inhibit dopamine breakdown and increase synthesis via mitochondrial effects.

This risks dopaminergic overstimulation (agitation, insomnia, paranoia).

4) MB can turn your brain blue—but only under specific conditions like high doses (>5 mg/kg or >300-400mg/day), chronic use (daily for months/years), IV administration, etc.

Most cases are seen in post-mortem studies.

Here are supplements and substances to AVOID with Methylene Blue:

• 5-HTP
• L-Tryptophan
• St. John's Wort
• Rhodiola rosea
• SAMe
• SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs
• Tramadol, dextromethorphan
• L-DOPA (mucuna pruriens)

To minimise die-off reactions if using MB:

Start with micro-doses (0.5-1mg) and increase by 0.5mg every 4-5 days

Stay hydrated with electrolytes.

And don’t forget to take breaks between usage periods.

Finally, who should NOT use Methylene Blue:

• Anyone on SSRIs, SNRIs
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Those with G6PD deficiency
• People with severe gut dysfunction or dysbiosis
• Individuals with kidney disease / renal insufficiency

Am I taking methylene blue? Yes.

For more information about methylene blue, its benefits, and how I’m taking it, read this thread:

https://x.com/bensmithlive/status/1850938348342509955

The biohacking world needs more balanced information.

MB's mitochondrial and cognitive benefits are real and scientifically validated.

But so are the risks of die-off reactions and dangerous MAOI interactions.

Thank you for reading!

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