Methylene Blue

Genuine pharmaceutical with established medical uses. Cognitive-enhancement and anti-aging applications are supported by preclinical data but not yet by robust human nootropic trials.

A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.

Acts as an alternative mitochondrial electron carrier at low doses. Phase III trials for Alzheimer's (as LMTX/TRx0237) failed primary endpoints but showed effects in monotherapy subgroups. Low-dose use for cognitive enhancement is largely preclinical.

• Enhances mitochondrial electron transport at low doses
• FDA-approved for methemoglobinemia
• Preclinical evidence for neuroprotection and tau inhibition

Nootropic community uses 0.5–2 mg/kg. Only pharmaceutical-grade (USP) should be used — industrial and aquarium grades contain contaminants.

• Blue-green discoloration of urine and stool
• Serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs
• Nausea at higher doses

Serotonin syndrome risk when combined with SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs — this is a serious and potentially fatal interaction. G6PD deficiency is a contraindication.

Hormetic dosing curve — low doses enhance mitochondrial function while high doses impair it. Nootropic claims derive mostly from animal studies.

• Memory40
• Longevity40
• Focus35
• Energy30