Methylene blue is a medication known for its emergency and detoxifying properties. It is highly effective in treating conditions such as impetigo, pyoderma, and viral skin infections like herpes simplex. Methylene blue is available in various forms, including tablets, injections, 1% topical solutions, and Milian solutions.
1. General information about the medication
Methylene blue was first synthesized by Heinrich Caro in 1876. Due to its widespread and popular use, it is currently classified among essential medications.
This drug is highly effective for sterilization, detoxification, dyeing, and treating certain common skin infections. It is considered a relatively benign drug that is non-toxic and not dangerous if accidentally ingested. Methylene blue is absorbed through the digestive tract and is excreted in colorless form through the urine.
In addition to its antiseptic properties, methylene blue can also stain tissue samples in laboratories. When exposed to light, it breaks down viral molecules by irreversibly binding to the nucleic acid of the virus. As a result, it can be used to treat localized viral infections such as herpes simplex, impetigo, and pyoderma, as well as to sterilize the genitourinary tract.
Methylene blue is absorbed in the digestive tract. is excreted in colorless form through urine and bile. However, urine may turn green or blue when exposed to air.
The drug should not be used in the following cases:
- Methemoglobinemia
- Cyanide poisoning
2. Side effects of the drug
Patients may experience several side effects from the drug, which can include:
- Digestive tract symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness, and abdominal pain.
- Anemia with long-term use
- Potential interactions with specific medications, including iodide, dichromate, certain alkalis, oxidizing agents, and other reducing agents
- Additional side effects, such as headache, fever, anemia, hemolysis, blue skin
3. Instructions for use
Methylene Blue is administered via injection or topical application. Patients should follow these instructions:
Injecting:
Before injection, dilute Methylene Blue with 0.9% saline. The solution should only be used for injection if it is mixed to a final concentration of 0.05%.
It is necessary to inject slowly with a dosage of 1-2 mg/kg of body weight. If an additional injection is needed, administer the next dose approximately one hour after the previous one.
Applying to the skin:
Read the instructions carefully and consult your doctor for any necessary information. Before applying Methylene Blue, sanitize the skin at the application with alcohol. Gently dab and apply the medication to the affected skin area.
Taking Methylene Blue orally:
For oral administration, the recommended dosage is 150 - 300 mg per day, except in emergencies. You should take it with plenty of water to aid digestion and prevent digestive issues or difficulties urinating.
4. Precautions
Patients taking Methylene Blue must consult a doctor and adhere to their instructions and prescription to achieve the best results.
- The drug should not be used by pregnant and lactating women
- It is contraindicated for individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, as it can cause acute hemolysis.
- The drug should only be used for a short duration, prolonged use should be avoided.
- Individuals with kidney failure should not use methylene blue
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