Using LDN and Methylene Blue for Treating Long COVID: An Integrative & Functional Medicine Approach in Carthage, IL with Dr. Kim

By Yoon Hang Kim, MD – Integrative & Functional Medicine Physician in Carthage, IL

Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC), has left many patients struggling with persistent symptoms months or even years after their initial infection. As an Integrative and Functional Medicine physician serving patients in Carthage, IL, I have been exploring innovative, evidence-informed treatments to help address this challenging condition. Two therapies showing promising results for certain patients are Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and Methylene Blue.

What is Long COVID?

While most people recover from COVID-19 within weeks, some experience lingering symptoms well after the acute illness is over. This is referred to as Long COVID or Post-COVID Syndrome.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent fatigue – feeling exhausted even after adequate rest

• Brain fog – trouble focusing, remembering, or thinking clearly

• Muscle and joint pain – aches that affect mobility and daily activities

• Shortness of breath – difficulty breathing during routine activities

• Sleep disturbances – insomnia or unrefreshing sleep

• Headaches – frequent or severe

• Heart palpitations – rapid or irregular heartbeat

Long COVID can affect anyone, regardless of age, prior health status, or severity of the initial infection.

Why Does Long COVID Happen?

Although the exact cause is still under investigation, research suggests that Long COVID may involve:

• Immune system dysregulation – persistent inflammation or autoimmunity

• Mitochondrial dysfunction – impaired cellular energy production

• Ongoing viral fragments – residual spike proteins that keep the immune system activated

• Vascular changes – microclots and reduced oxygen delivery to tissues

Functional Medicine focuses on addressing these underlying mechanisms rather than just treating symptoms.

My Clinical Experience with Methylene Blue

In January 2024, I attended IMS 24 NYC, a conference where leading researchers and clinicians shared promising strategies for Long COVID. One therapy that stood out was Methylene Blue, a compound with a long history in medicine.

Since then, I have been carefully selecting patients who might benefit from Methylene Blue. One of my patients with severe Long COVID symptoms—including fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain—reported dramatic improvements after just one month of treatment. She regained energy, mental clarity, and physical comfort, allowing her to resume activities she had previously abandoned.

Methylene Blue is believed to work by:

• Enhancing mitochondrial function – improving cellular energy production

• Increasing oxygen utilization – supporting brain and muscle performance

• Reducing oxidative stress – protecting cells from inflammation-related damage

The Role of Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

LDN is another therapy I use for selected Long COVID patients. At doses far lower than its traditional use, LDN modulates the immune system and reduces inflammation. It may help rebalance an overactive immune response and alleviate symptoms linked to neuroinflammation and autoimmune activation—two processes thought to be involved in Long COVID.

An Integrative & Functional Medicine Approach

My approach at Direct Integrative Care in Carthage, IL combines:

• Comprehensive assessment – detailed history, lab work, and functional testing

• Targeted therapies – such as Methylene Blue, LDN, mitochondrial support nutrients, and anti-inflammatory strategies

• Lifestyle interventions – personalized nutrition, sleep optimization, and stress management

• Ongoing monitoring – adjusting treatment plans based on progress and response

By focusing on root causes, Functional Medicine offers hope for patients who have struggled to find relief through conventional care alone.

Final Thoughts

Long COVID is a complex, multi-system condition that requires personalized care. Both Methylene Blue and Low Dose Naltrexone are promising tools within a broader Integrative and Functional Medicine framework. My patient’s success story is just one example of how targeted interventions can help restore vitality and quality of life.

Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD

Board-Certified physician practicing Integrative & Functional Medicine Serving Carthage, IL and surrounding areas IL, MO, TX, GA, FL

🌐 www.directintegrativecare.com

SEO Keywords:Integrative Medicine Carthage IL, Functional Medicine Carthage IL, Dr. Kim Long COVID treatment, Methylene Blue Long COVID, LDN Long COVID, Post-COVID recovery Carthage IL, mitochondrial support, immune modulation