Town & Country Compounding has received many questions about methylene blue from prescribers.
Post-viral illness refers to a condition where symptoms persist or develop after the acute phase of a viral infection has resolved. Post-viral syndrome is often used to describe lingering fatigue and other symptoms following viral infections, including COVID-19.
People often relate to terms such as “Long Covid, Long-Haul Covid, and Post-Covid”, yet these post-viral illnesses can occur with many viruses besides Covid-19.
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been proposed as one of the potential mechanisms contributing to persistent symptoms experienced in various post-viral illnesses.
Patients with the following viruses may often experience post-viral fatigue, pain, and cognitive difficulties:
- COVID-19 (Post-Covid, Long Covid, Long Haul Covid)
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
- Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
The relationship between post-viral illnesses and mitochondrial dysfunction is complex, and not everyone has mitochondrial dysfunction as the primary cause.
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How certain viruses lead to mitochondrial dysfunction symptoms
Viruses can contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction through various mechanisms. Mitochondria play a crucial role in energy metabolism and oxidative stress regulation. Viral-induced mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses.
Chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation
The immune response to viral infections can lead to inflammation, contributing to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Many viral infections induce oxidative stress within cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during antiviral responses can damage mitochondrial DNA, proteins, and lipids.
Viral components often remain in tissues even after the acute infection resolves, triggering ongoing immune responses.
Viral damage to organs and tissues can compromise blood flow and oxygen supply, worsening mitochondrial dysfunction.
Viral infections may trigger permeabilization of mitochondrial membranes, disrupting energy production and cellular function.
Drug Interactions
Methylene blue may interact with medications that affect serotonin levels. Caution is advised when used in combination with:
- SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
- SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
- TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressants)
- MAOs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
Methylene blue and its role in mitochondrial FUNCTION
Energy production: Methylene blue acts as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, potentially supporting ATP production.
Oxidative stress: Methylene blue exhibits antioxidant properties, helping reduce oxidative stress within cells.
Nitric oxide pathway regulation: It may modulate nitric oxide signaling, which is involved in many physiological processes.
Mitochondrial biogenesis: Methylene blue may promote the generation of new mitochondria.
"The safest option is pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue, for which you need a prescription. Never use industrial-grade methylene blue... Instead, have your physician write you a prescription to a compounding pharmacy."
– Dr. Joseph Mercola
Related blogs:
Nitric Oxide (NO) Supplements
Methylene Blue may help in addressing nitric oxide (NO) issues, but it’s always good to know your levels. Supplements and testing strips are available at Town & Country Compounding.
