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SENSORY ORGANS › OPHTHALMOLOGICALS › ANTIINFECTIVES › Other antiinfectives
silver compounds
S01AX02
Forms & Strengths
- Ophthalmic solution 1%
- Topical cream/ointment (various concentrations)
- Impregnated dressings
Adult Dosing
- Ophthalmic prophylaxis of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum: 1-2 drops of 1% solution into conjunctival sac once.
- Topical burns/wounds: Apply 0.5% cream or dressings to affected areas 1-2 times daily as needed.
Pediatric Dosing
- Neonatal gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum prophylaxis: 1-2 drops of 1% silver nitrate solution into each conjunctival sac once immediately after birth.
- Pediatric burn/wound topical care: Apply thin layer of silver sulfadiazine 1% 1-2 times daily.
Indications
- Prevention of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum
- Adjunctive treatment and prevention of wound sepsis in patients with second- and third-degree burns
Mechanism of Action
- Silver ions precipitate bacterial proteins and bind to DNA/RNA, exerting bactericidal and bacteriostatic effects against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to silver or any component of the formulation
- Premature infants or neonates (for silver sulfadiazine due to risk of kernicterus)
Adverse Reactions
- Argyria (generalized or localized blue-gray discoloration of skin/mucous membranes with chronic use)
- Transient ocular irritation, chemical conjunctivitis (ophthalmic nitrate)
- Leukopenia (with extensive topical silver sulfadiazine use)
- Local skin necrosis, burning, or allergic contact dermatitis
Drug Interactions
- Proteolytic enzymes (e.g., collagenase): Topical silver may inactivate enzymatic debriding agents.
- Sodium chloride: Can precipitate silver ions, reducing the efficacy of silver nitrate solutions.
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use