Methylene blue is a blue-colored medication and dye. It has medicinal properties, and also is used in laboratories for microscopic studies.
Key points:
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Methemoglobinemia Treatment: It is an antidote for methemoglobinemia, a condition where there is an abnormal increase in the amount of methemoglobin in the blood. Methemoglobin is a form of hemoglobin that cannot carry oxygen effectively. Methylene blue helps convert methemoglobin back to its normal oxygen-carrying form.
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Urinary Tract Infections: It can treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). It has antibacterial properties and may help in reducing symptoms.
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Antioxidant Properties: It has antioxidant properties, which means it can help reduce oxidative stress in cells.
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Photodynamic Therapy: It is used in photodynamic therapy, a treatment that involves using light to activate a photosensitizing agent to target and destroy abnormal cells, including cancer cells.
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Central Nervous System Disorders: It may be able to treat of certain central nervous system disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases.
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Antifungal Properties: It has antifungal properties, and research is ongoing to explore its potential in the treatment of fungal infections.