What is this medicine?

METHYLENE BLUE (METH uh leen bloo) is used to treat methemoglobinemia. This is a condition in which the blood loses its ability to carry oxygen through the body.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): PROVAYBLUE

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • cyanide poisoning
  • glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
  • kidney disease
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to methylene blue, phenothiazines, thiazide diuretics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • bupropion
  • certain medicines for depression or anxiety
  • clomipramine
  • doxepin
  • duloxetine
  • fluoxetine
  • MAOIs like Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
  • milnacipran
  • mirtazapine
  • rasagiline
  • selegiline
  • St. John's wort
  • trazodone
  • tryptophan

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • increased sweating
  • stomach pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blue-green coloration of urine and stools
  • nausea, vomiting
  • skin discoloration

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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