Blue Brilliance: The Radical Promise of Methylene Blue and a Biohacker's Near-Death Revival

April 24, 20254 min read

From Concussion to Amputation: A Doctor's Journey of Resilience and Reinvention

Intravenous light therapy with blue and red laser activation during a Methylene Blue infusion on a patient’s arm

Dr. John Lieurance doesn’t just talk about radical health tools—he lives them. When a devastating accident led to compartment syndrome and a cascade of medical complications that culminated in amputation, the world-renowned physician and biohacker faced the ultimate test: could his arsenal of experimental therapies and fringe medicine save his life?

Spoiler alert: they did.

But that’s just the beginning.

In a recent interview, Dr. Lieurance shared the untold story of how Methylene Blue, light therapy, carbon dioxide inhalation, and regenerative medicine played a central role in his recovery and how they’re reshaping the landscape of brain health, chronic infections, and mitochondrial medicine.


The Curious Case of the Blue Brain

A controversial article titled The Blue Brain Effect made waves online by showing autopsy images of human brains stained blue after high-dose intravenous Methylene Blue. Critics claimed it was a sign of toxicity.

Dr. Lieurance strongly disagrees. “What they were seeing wasn’t toxicity—it was mitochondrial absorption,” he explained. “And that’s exactly what makes Methylene Blue so powerful.”

Why Methylene Blue Works So Well

  • Increases mitochondrial function by stimulating all four complexes of the electron transport chain

  • Improves mood by supporting serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine

  • Acts as a photodynamic enhancer, increasing the effects of red light therapy

  • Is both an oxidant and an antioxidant, helping to balance redox signaling in cells

It’s a brilliantly blue salt that reflects blue and absorbs red—essentially functioning like a sponge that captures photons and sends them into your mitochondria.


The Safety Conversation: Is Methylene Blue Dangerous?

Some critics point to Methylene Blue’s synthetic origins, noting that it's derived from coal tar and classifying it as a xenobiotic. Others express concerns about serotonin syndrome, especially in patients on SSRIs.

Dr. Lieurance offers clarity:

  • The serotonin issue originated from isolated surgical cases involving massive IV doses—not common therapeutic use.

  • The Mayo Clinic later retracted its warning, citing safety at lower doses.

  • Oral or reduced forms like LeucoMethylene Blue are well tolerated, even in patients with G6PD deficiency.

As for its synthetic nature? “It’s stable, effective, and has over a century of documented safe use. Many pharmaceuticals are derived from petroleum,” he said. “Synthetic doesn’t automatically mean harmful.”


Prosta-Blue Zone: A New Frontier in Men’s Health

One of the most exciting applications of Methylene Blue lies in a protocol Dr. Lieurance calls Prosta-Blue Zone—a treatment for chronic prostate inflammation and infection in men.

Using next-generation semen and urine sequencing, his clinic discovered that many men diagnosed with “benign prostatic hypertrophy” actually have hidden infections driving inflammation and enlargement.

The Protocol Includes:

  • Comprehensive semen + urine testing to identify microbes and appropriate antibiotics

  • Targeted injections of Methylene Blue, antibiotics, and ozone directly into the prostate

  • Photodynamic activation using internal red light to supercharge the Methylene Blue

This therapy has led to:

  • Significant reductions in nighttime urination

  • Resolution of fungal and bacterial contamination

  • In some cases, complete disappearance of prostate lesions on MRI

Dr. Lieurance even observed improvements in patients’ partners, noting that infected semen may contribute to recurrent UTIs and yeast infections in women.


The Fall That Changed Everything

Not long ago, Dr. Lieurance suffered a life-altering injury—an accident that resulted in a concussion and severe compartment syndrome. He endured kidney failure, 15 surgeries, and months of hospitalization, eventually facing the agonizing decision to amputate his leg below the knee.

But his recovery defied all expectations.

During his hospital stay, he covertly used an arsenal of regenerative tools: stem cells, peptides, melatonin, Methylene Blue, and phototherapy—many of which the hospital wouldn’t permit.

Within weeks, his kidneys recovered, dialysis was discontinued, and he avoided a full-leg amputation at the hip.


Why He Chose Amputation—and What Comes Next

Despite all efforts, Dr. Lieurance ultimately chose below-the-knee amputation, opting for mobility, safety, and freedom over retaining a lifeless, numb foot.

Five weeks post-op, he began the process of receiving a prosthetic. His goal? To return to surfing the massive waves of Nazaré, Portugal—this time with a prosthetic leg.

“I believe this is my path,” he said. “And my purpose now is to inspire others by showing that what looks like tragedy can be transformed into strength.”


Breath, Light, and Carbon Dioxide: His Latest Health Obsessions

Dr. Lieurance is also pioneering new protocols around intermittent hypoxic training and CO₂ therapy.

Key Innovations:

  • Carbon dioxide inhalation (3–7%) to induce calm, enhance nitric oxide, and mimic the benefits of extreme sports

  • Intermittent hypoxia devices that cycle between high and low oxygen to improve mitochondrial efficiency

  • Combining CO₂ and hydrogen gas inhalation for advanced cellular regeneration

He even integrated CO₂ into rectal insufflation therapy and built custom devices to optimize gas flow during oxygen contrast training.


Final Thoughts: Man-Made Problems Need Man-Made Solutions

“We live in a world of artificial toxins, stressors, and pathogens. If we lived off the land, Methylene Blue might be unnecessary. But in today’s environment, it’s a critical tool,” said Dr. Lieurance.

He sees Methylene Blue not just as a supplement, but as a therapeutic bridge—a bio-adaptive molecule for a bio-disrupted world.


Resources & Recommendations


Hey there! My name is Anna Wiemken. I am a board-certified family nurse practitioner and the founder of Forte Health and Wellness in Fargo, ND. My passion? Unraveling the root cause of chronic conditions and empowering my patients with personalized, science-backed care. I blend traditional medicine with holistic therapies to optimize hormones, support medical weight loss, and tackle stealth infections—all while providing comprehensive, patient-centered primary care. If you're looking for fresh insights on functional medicine, longevity, and whole-body wellness, you're in the right place. Let's take control of your health, together!

Anna Wiemken, FNP-C

Hey there! My name is Anna Wiemken. I am a board-certified family nurse practitioner and the founder of Forte Health and Wellness in Fargo, ND. My passion? Unraveling the root cause of chronic conditions and empowering my patients with personalized, science-backed care. I blend traditional medicine with holistic therapies to optimize hormones, support medical weight loss, and tackle stealth infections—all while providing comprehensive, patient-centered primary care. If you're looking for fresh insights on functional medicine, longevity, and whole-body wellness, you're in the right place. Let's take control of your health, together!

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It reflects my clinical experience as a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and should not be interpreted as individualized medical advice. The content shared here is not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment and should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health. Always consult with your personal healthcare provider before beginning any new protocol, supplement, or treatment approach.

Anna Wiemken, FNP-C

Founder, Forte Health and Wellness, PLLC