Analysis by Dr. Joseph Mercola - April 19, 2025
Story at-a-glance
· Methylene blue has been shown to shrink tumors and
slow cancer growth by targeting cancer cell metabolism and energy production
· Photodynamic therapy with methylene blue uses light
activation to destroy cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed, making
it a more precise treatment option
· Research on ovarian cancer found that methylene
blue forces tumors to shift away from their preferred energy source, making them
more vulnerable to treatment
· Unlike chemotherapy, methylene blue treatment does
not cause significant side effects or toxicity, making it a promising option
for patients with drug-resistant cancers
· Proper dosing is important. Just 5 milligrams of
pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue per day is enough to reduce cellular stress
and support mitochondrial health
Conventional cancer treatments often come with
debilitating side effects. For example, chemotherapy and radiation therapy not
only target tumors but also damage healthy cells, leaving patients weakened and
vulnerable to infections. In an effort to find safer treatment options for
patients, researchers are now testing the efficacy of methylene blue — a
commonly used dye that enhances cellular energy production — in treating
cancer.
https://odysee.com/@DoctorMercola:2/Methylene-Blue-A-New-Hope-for-Cancer-Treatment:5
Methylene Blue Photodynamic Therapy Shrinks Tumors
A systematic review published in Frontiers in
Pharmacology analyzed the effects of methylene blue in photodynamic therapy for
cancer treatment. Researchers reviewed 10 preclinical studies from different
countries assessing how methylene blue, when activated by light, impacts tumor
growth.
•Methylene blue targets different
cancers — The analysis covered different
types of cancer, including colorectal tumors, melanoma and carcinoma,
highlighting methylene blue's ability to shrink tumors through a highly
targeted mechanism that spares healthy tissue. A total of 133 mice were used,
with 59 receiving methylene blue photodynamic therapy and 74 serving as
untreated controls.1
•Antitumor properties of methylene blue
— The researchers found that
methylene blue significantly reduced tumor sizes in seven of the 10 studies,
with reductions ranging from 12% to complete tumor elimination.
The largest effects were seen in colorectal cancer
models, where tumors shrank by up to 99.9%, while some breast cancer models
showed slower tumor progression rather than outright shrinkage. These results
show methylene blue has strong anticancer effects, though its impact varies
depending on tumor type and drug delivery method.2
•The use of light to fight cancer — Photodynamic therapy relies on methylene
blue's ability to absorb light in the 630 to 680 nanometer wavelength range.
When exposed to this specific type of light, methylene blue generates reactive
oxygen species (ROS), highly reactive molecules that destroy cancer cells from
within.
This process selectively targets tumor cells
because methylene blue accumulates in malignant tissue while sparing healthy
cells. The review found that this light-activated destruction was particularly
effective in skin and colorectal tumors, leading to significant tumor reduction
within weeks of treatment.3
New Technology Improves Bioavailability of
Methylene Blue
One of the most promising findings involved the use
of nanotechnology to enhance methylene blue's anticancer effects. Five studies
included in the review used nanoformulations — tiny carriers designed to
improve the drug's stability and absorption.4
•Increased bioavailability — According to the researchers, the nano-based
versions of methylene blue led to even greater tumor reduction than traditional
injections. For instance, a breast cancer study using methylene blue-loaded
nanoparticles resulted in complete tumor eradication.5
•Experiments in dosages — Tumor response also depended on the number of
methylene blue treatments administered. While some studies used a single
injection, others administered up to seven doses over time. More frequent
treatments generally resulted in greater tumor shrinkage. For example, one
carcinoma model that received seven doses showed significantly slower tumor
growth compared to models that received only one or two doses.6
•Results are
positive, but sometimes inconsistent — While methylene blue
photodynamic therapy was effective in most studies, the review noted some
inconsistencies. In a few cases, tumors did not shrink
but instead grew more slowly than untreated tumors. This was observed in some
breast cancer models, where tumor reduction was not as dramatic as in other
cancers.
Researchers theorize that this variation is due to
differences in how well methylene blue is absorbed in different tissue types. Some cancers may require
modifications in dosing, delivery methods or additional combination therapies
to enhance treatment effects.7
•Improved
antitumor response — Beyond its ability to destroy cancer cells,
methylene blue also helps enhance the immune system's response to tumors. The
meta-analysis shows that ROS generated during photodynamic therapy triggers
immune activation, helping the body recognize and attack remaining cancer
cells.
This
immune-boosting effect likely explains why some tumors continued to shrink even
after photodynamic therapy sessions ended. However, more research is needed to
confirm this mechanism to help improve long-term treatment outcomes.8
•Safe to use — Methylene blue's safety profile is another
advantage noted in the review. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which cause
widespread damage to healthy cells, photodynamic therapy with methylene blue
resulted in minimal side effects in animal models.
The treatment
selectively targeted cancerous tissue without causing significant harm to
surrounding healthy cells, making it a promising option for patients who cannot
tolerate conventional treatments. Additionally, methylene blue is relatively
inexpensive, meaning it offers a more affordable alternative to expensive
targeted cancer therapies.9
These findings
reinforce methylene blue's growing reputation as a powerful tool in cancer
treatment. By leveraging light-activated therapy, this compound offers a way to
precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to healthy cells.10
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Methylene Blue Disrupts
Cancer Cell Metabolism
In an animal
study published in Cancers, a team of Canadian researchers explored how
methylene blue affects ovarian cancer growth at the metabolic level. The findings revealed that methylene blue
significantly slowed tumor growth, and more importantly, targets cancer cell
metabolism, altering how tumors generate energy and making them more vulnerable
to destruction.11
•Methylene blue works as a chemotherapy
adjunct — The researchers used an ovarian
cancer model where human tumor cells were implanted into immunodeficient mice.
These particular cells were resistant to carboplatin, a chemotherapy drug
commonly used to treat ovarian cancer. This resistance is a major problem in
real-world treatment, as many patients eventually stop responding to standard
chemotherapy.
The study
compared multiple treatment groups — mice receiving methylene blue alone,
methylene blue combined with carboplatin, carboplatin alone and an untreated
control group. Tumors in the methylene blue group grew significantly slower
than those in the control and carboplatin-only groups, demonstrating its
effectiveness even against drug-resistant cancer.12
•Cancer cell
energy production is affected — Cancer cells thrive on a dysfunctional
metabolism known as the Warburg effect, which prioritizes glucose
fermentation over normal oxygen-based energy production. This metabolic switch
allows tumors to grow rapidly and resist many treatments.
With this in
mind, the study found that methylene blue disrupted this process, forcing
cancer cells to rely on oxygen-based energy production again. This shift puts
immense stress on the tumor cells, making it harder for them to survive and
multiply.13
•Mitochondrial
genes are targeted — Cancer cells treated with methylene blue had
lower expression of key respiratory chain genes, particularly those involved in
complex IV, which is responsible for oxygen reduction.
In other words,
methylene blue interfered with the tumor's ability to efficiently process
oxygen, further disrupting its energy supply. This
effect was much more pronounced in cancer cells than in normal cells,
reinforcing methylene blue's selective action against tumors.14
•Virtually
nontoxic — Methylene
blue did not cause noticeable toxicity in the test mice. Unlike chemotherapy,
which often leads to severe side effects like weight loss and immune
suppression, mice receiving methylene blue maintained stable body weight and
showed no signs of distress.
This is a
critical advantage, as one of the biggest challenges in cancer treatment is
balancing effectiveness with patient quality of life. The ability to target
tumors without causing widespread damage makes methylene blue an attractive
option for future therapies.15
These findings
provide strong evidence that methylene blue is not just a photodynamic agent
but also a metabolic disruptor in cancer therapy. By forcing tumors to shift
away from their preferred energy source, methylene blue makes them more vulnerable
to treatment.16
Safety and Dosage
Recommendations for Methylene Blue
Based on these findings, it's easy to fall into the
idea that "more is better" when it comes to taking methylene blue for
your health. However, don't fall into this trap. As mentioned in my interview with metabolic
health expert Georgi Dinkov, getting the proper dose is
important to avoid severe adverse effects. One example is serotonin
syndrome — a fatal condition caused by excessive serotonin levels in the brain.
•Contraindications
of methylene blue — It is a potent monoamine oxidase type A
(MAO-A) inhibitor. This means that when it is combined with a selective serotonin
reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or other serotonergic drugs, your serotonin levels
can increase to dangerous levels.
Methylene blue
can interact with other medications, too, including other antidepressants and
antimalarials, altering their efficacy or causing adverse reactions. In
addition, methylene blue is contraindicated for people diagnosed with
glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency due to the risk of
hemolytic anemia (a blood disorder wherein your red blood cells break down
faster than your body can replace them).
•Your urine
will turn blue — Be aware that methylene blue can stain your urine and
occasionally, your tongue. While these effects are harmless, it will most
likely surprise you when it happens.
•False pulse
oximeter readings — High doses can also interfere with pulse
oximeter readings, due to its light absorption properties, resulting in falsely
low oxygen saturation readings.
•A note for
those with kidney damage — If you have severe renal insufficiency, it
would be wise to use methylene blue with caution and under close medical
supervision as impaired kidney function influences how fast drugs clear from
your system.
•Other side
effects of methylene blue — Examples include mild and transient
gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and diarrhea. While rare, a wide
range of allergic reactions, from skin rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis,
can also occur. Headaches and confusion have also been reported. Though less
common, cardiovascular effects, such as increased blood pressure and
palpitations, could also occur.
•Low doses are better — Methylene blue is better taken at small,
daily doses, ranging from 5 to 15 milligrams (mg), according to Dinkov,
especially for long-term use. This is the sweet spot for the diverse benefits
of methylene blue without increasing your serotonin levels. High doses of
methylene blue are generally reserved for therapeutic applications, and even
then, it must be done under the supervision of a medical practitioner.
If you're considering adding methylene blue to your
health routine, consult with a knowledgeable medical professional first.
Together, you'll be able to work out the dosage specific to your needs, as well
as warn you of potential harmful interactions with any medications you're
currently taking.
My Personal Way of Taking Methylene Blue
When it comes to buying methylene blue, you'll find
three types for sale — industrial-grade, chemical-grade (laboratory-grade) and
pharmaceutical-grade.
•Buy pharmaceutical-grade methylene
blue — Out of the three, the only one
you should ever use is the pharmaceutical-grade variety, ideally in solid,
capsule or tablet forms. Avoid liquid solutions of methylene blue as dissolving
it in water significantly decreases its effectiveness after 48 to 72 hours.
•Don't use methylene blue for aquariums
— You've probably seen methylene
blue used in maintaining aquariums. That's because it contains antifungal,
antiparasitic and oxygen-transporting properties. While those benefits also
sound enticing for therapeutic usage, this type of methylene blue often
contains additional harmful contaminants, even posing serious health risks to
your aquatic pets.
Never use
methylene blue designed for aquariums or other animal-related applications. To
protect your health, always choose pharmaceutical-grade, as it undergoes
rigorous testing to confirm it is free from impurities.
•Methylene blue will help with
reductive stress — Remember not to over-rely on
methylene blue to achieve optimal health. In my own case, I have eliminated my
regular intake of methylene blue. I find that my daily walks by the ocean are
incredibly helpful in managing reductive stress naturally.
However, during times when I'm unable to take a
walk by the beach, I would consider taking 5 mg of methylene blue daily,
adjusting to 3 mg if I were 75 pounds lighter in weight, and doing so six days
a week.
If you're
considering taking methylene blue for its anticancer (or other metabolic)
benefits, visit your doctor first to check if it's suitable for your case. The
reason for this is because the appropriate way to use methylene blue is through
a prescription, and misuse will put your health at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Anticancer Potential of Methylene Blue
Q: How does methylene blue help fight cancer?
A: Methylene blue works in two
ways — photodynamic therapy and metabolic disruption. In photodynamic therapy,
it accumulates in cancer cells and, when exposed to specific wavelengths of
light, produces reactive oxygen species that destroy tumors while sparing
healthy tissue. It also disrupts the altered metabolism
of cancer cells, forcing them to rely on normal oxygen-based energy production,
weakening and slowing their growth.
Q: What types of cancer have methylene blue
been shown to affect?
A: Studies
have demonstrated that methylene blue significantly shrinks tumors in
colorectal cancer, melanoma and carcinoma. Research also shows that it slows
the growth of chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer, making it a promising
option for hard-to-treat cases.
Q: Is methylene blue
safe to use as a cancer treatment?
A: Unlike traditional
chemotherapy and radiation, methylene blue does not damage healthy cells.
Animal studies have shown minimal toxicity, no severe side effects and a strong
safety profile. However, pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue should always be
used, and improper dosages or interactions with certain medications, like
SSRIs, should be avoided.
Q: How is methylene blue taken for cancer
therapy?
A: The
most effective and safest method is pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue in
capsule or tablet form, with a standard dosage of 5 mg once daily for
mitochondrial support.
Q: Can methylene blue be combined with other
cancer treatments?
A: Yes,
research shows that methylene blue enhances the effects of chemotherapy drugs
like carboplatin. It also strengthens the immune system's response to tumors,
which will help improve long-term outcomes. More studies are needed to
determine the best combinations and dosing strategies for different cancer
types.
QUIZ
How does DMSO make your immune system
better at fighting cancer?
·
It strengthens your immune response and helps
it recognize and eliminate cancers that evade it
https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2025/04/18/how-dmso-naturally-eliminates-cancers.aspx
nen ‘schouwen’.. Kijken achter de schermen van de alledaagse ‘realiteit’, die dat natuurlijk niet is, omdat er zoveel realiteit VERBORGEN blijft.
Net als vandaag zijn mensen vaccinaties tegen deze ziekte of die ziekte, dus in de toekomst zullen kinderen gevaccineerd worden met een stof die precies zo geproduceerd kan worden dat mensen, dankzij deze vaccinatie immuun zullen zijn om blootgesteld te worden aan de ‘waanzin’ van het spirituele leven. Hij zou ontzettend slim zijn, maar hij zou geen geweten ontwikkelen, en dat is het ware doel van sommige materialistische kringen. Met zo’n vaccin maak je het etherische lichaam makkelijk los in het fysieke lichaam.