Methylene Blue injection
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.
