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methylene blue-injection

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GENERIC NAME: METHYLENE BLUE - INJECTION (METH-ih-leen blue)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used as a diagnostic agent because of its blue staining properties. This is also used in the treatment of cyanide poisoning and methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder).

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by intravenous (IV) injection over several minutes by a health care professional.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting or bladder irritation may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, notify your doctor. This medication causes the urine, stools and possibly skin to turn green-blue in color. Do not be alarmed. Expect this effect. The discoloration will disappear when the medication is stopped. Notify your doctor if you notice: high fever, severe nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, chest pain, dizziness, profuse sweating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, blood blood disorders (especially G6PD deficiency), allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

NOTES: This medication is given by intravenous injection only.

MISSED DOSE: This is usually given as a one-time dose.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.

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