Methylene Blue has a potent antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in the absence of UV-activation in vitro

ABSTRACT Methylene blue is an FDA and EMA approved drug with an excellent safety profile. It displays broad-spectrum virucidal activity in the presence of UV light and has been shown to be effective in inactivating various viruses in blood products prior to transfusions. In addition, its use has been validated for methemoglobinemia and malaria treatment. Here we show the virucidal activity of methylene blue at low micromolar concentrations and in the absence of UV activation against SARS-CoV2.