Successful Use of Methylene Blue in Catecholamine-Resistant Septic Shock: A Case Report and Short Literature Review

Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jun 28;24(13):10772. doi: 10.3390/ijms241310772.

Abstract

Despite efforts to improve treatment outcomes, mortality in septic shock remains high. In some patients, despite the use of several adrenergic drugs, features of refractory vasoplegic shock with progressive multiorgan failure are observed. We present a case report of the successful reversal of vasoplegic shock following the use of methylene blue, a selective inhibitor of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase, which prevents vasodilation in response to inflammatory cytokines. We also briefly review the literature.

Keywords: methylene blue; sepsis; vasoplegic shock.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Catecholamines
  • Humans
  • Methylene Blue / therapeutic use
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase
  • Shock* / drug therapy
  • Shock, Septic* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Catecholamines
  • Methylene Blue
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.