Expert Warns of Methylene Blue's MAO Inhibitor Risks for General Public

A recent discussion on the popular Joe Rogan Podcast, featuring biochemist Chris Masterjohn, has brought attention to the complex nature of methylene blue, particularly its potential benefits for specific mitochondrial issues and significant risks for the general population. Neuroscientist Andrew D. Huberman, Ph.D., highlighted the key takeaways, stating in a recent tweet, > "Great job by @ChrisMasterjohn on latest @joerogan podcast explaining that (& why) for some people with certain mitochondrial issues, methylene blue may help but for others (most people) it can cause some serious problems. And the MAO activity = you’re 'taking an antidepressant'."The podcast segment delved into methylene blue's therapeutic potential, suggesting it might offer benefits for individuals diagnosed with certain mitochondrial dysfunctions. For these specific cases, the compound could aid cellular energy production and overall mitochondrial health, as explained by Masterjohn. However, this potential benefit is highly conditional and not applicable to everyone.A critical point emphasized during the discussion is methylene blue's potent monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitory activity. This pharmacological action means that for most individuals, consuming methylene blue is akin to "taking an antidepressant," as Huberman noted. MAO inhibitors are a class of prescription drugs used to treat depression, and their use requires careful medical supervision due to potential interactions with other medications and dietary restrictions.The widespread popularity of the Joe Rogan Podcast, which reaches millions of listeners, provides a significant platform for such detailed scientific discussions. Chris Masterjohn, known for his expertise in biochemistry and nutrition, offered an in-depth analysis, while Andrew Huberman, a prominent neuroscientist and science communicator, amplified the message, underscoring the importance of understanding complex physiological interactions before considering supplement use. This expert consensus serves as a crucial warning against casual self-medication with compounds like methylene blue, emphasizing the need for professional medical advice.