Drug reference

Silver nitrate

Heavy Metal Antiseptic · Antiseptic; Wart remover; Ophthalmic prophylaxis

Also known as Toughened silver nitrate

Heavy Metal AntisepticAntiseptic; Wart remover; Ophthalmic prophylaxis

CDSCO approved

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

2 major

SEVERE in our sources

PREGNANCY

Avoid—toxicity in animal studies.

FDA category + note

Top interactions

Nitrous AcidSevereDatabaseDDInter
PrilocaineSevereDatabaseDDInter

Mechanism

Silver nitrate acts by inhibiting the growth of activated keratinocytes and exerting anti-oxidative effects at the site of application. As an inorganic silver salt, it is strongly bactericidal, achieving local tissue destruction and killing microorganisms through cauterization.

Indications

Warts (external genital and perianal) in immunocompetent patientsRemoval of warts on hands and feetPrevention of neonatal gonococcal ophthalmiaCauterizationhypertrophied tonsillitisaphthous ulcersophthalmia neonatorum

Dosing

Adult: For warts: Apply up to 250 mg 3 times a day to the lesion until complete clearance (maximum 16 weeks).
Pediatric: For prevention of neonatal gonococcal ophthalmia: 1% solution instilled into both eyes without being washed out.
Hepatic adjustment: Avoid in severe impairment (limited information available).
Max dose: 750 mg per day for warts