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.

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.

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

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

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

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

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

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

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