Medical uses of silver

Mechanism of Action and Medical Uses

• Silver and silver compounds have an oligodynamic effect toxic for bacteria, algae, and fungi.
• The antibacterial action of silver relies on the silver ion damaging key enzyme systems in pathogens’ cell membranes.
• Silver-coated electrodes and dressings enhance antibacterial action.
• Silver sulfadiazine is a topical antibiotic for burns, FDA approved and listed by WHO.
• Silver dressings and endotracheal tubes aid in wound healing and reduce pneumonia risk.
• Silver-alloy catheters reduce infections but may be costlier.
• Silver nanoparticles enhance drug effectiveness against infections.

Adverse Effects and Precautions

• Silver accumulates irreversibly in the body, causing conditions like argyria.
• Chronic use combined with sunlight exposure can lead to skin discoloration.
• Laser therapy is used for treatment but may require general anesthesia.
• Some medications may interact with colloidal silver.
• Homemade silver solutions and oral colloidal silver have potential side effects.

Water Purification and Environmental Concerns

• Electrolytically dissolved silver disinfects water in places like hospitals and spacecraft.
• WHO recommends silver for safe drinking water in developing countries.
• Ceramic filters with silver particles inhibit microbial growth.
• Concerns exist about the environmental impact of manufactured silver nanomaterials.

Regulatory Approvals and Guidelines

• FDA has cleared various silver-containing products like dressings and endotracheal tubes.
• Companies have submitted summaries for silver antimicrobial dressings.
• Guidelines exist for spacecraft water exposure and the use of colloidal silver.
• National health agencies provide information on silver products and their potential risks.

Historical Use and Controversies

• Hippocrates and surgeons in the twentieth century used silver for wound care.
• Colloidal silver had a resurgence in the 1990s but lacks medical evidence for disease treatment.
• FDA banned therapeutic claims for colloidal silver in 1999.
• During the COVID-19 outbreak, fraudulent claims were made about colloidal silver.
• Concerns have been raised about the cost and environmental impact of silver-containing products.

Medical uses of silver Data Sources