Doctors Warn Against Trendy ‘Limitless Pill’
Methylene Blue’s Rise in Wellness Circles Sparks Concern
A growing health trend involving the use of methylene blue, dubbed a “limitless pill,” is raising red flags among medical professionals. This synthetic dye, once used for specific medical treatments, is now being touted by celebrities and influencers as a brain-boosting miracle drug, prompting doctors to issue warnings about its potential dangers.
The Substance in Question
Methylene blue, developed in the 1800s, has a history of medical applications. It has been used to treat malaria and a rare blood disorder. More recently, some in the wellness community have promoted it as a “miracle drug.”
It has also been suggested that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was using the substance, as a video showed him dropping blue liquid into water on a flight. The substance also has industrial applications, such as a dye for textiles and printing.
Potential Benefits and Endorsements
Advocates claim methylene blue can improve mental clarity and potentially slow aging. Some studies suggest it may help with mental health issues, like bipolar disorder and depression. Mel Gibson and Joe Rogan have discussed methylene blue, with Rogan stating that he takes it daily.
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Risks and Expert Concerns
Experts warn against the recreational use of methylene blue, citing potential serious complications. Recreational use could lead to seizures and red blood cell destruction in susceptible individuals. The effects on the brain are not fully understood, with one expert saying, “The brain is not a machine you can casually ‘optimise’ like a smartphone.”
Another danger of methylene blue is serotonin syndrome, which is rare, but potentially serious. This happens when serotonin levels in the brain become too high. Symptoms include confusion, agitation, muscle twitching, sweating, shivering and diarrhea.
In the US, the FDA approved methylene blue for treating methemoglobinemia, but its use in wellness circles is not endorsed by all medical professionals. The use of methylene blue is growing in popularity, but experts are cautioning people about the possible negative consequences.
