Generic name: silver nitrate topical [ SIL-ver-NYE-trate-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand name: Grafco Silver Nitrate
Dosage forms: topical solution (0.5%; 10%; 25%; 50%), topical stick (-)
Drug class: Antiseptic and germicides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 16, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is silver nitrate topical?

Silver nitrate is a natural compound that is used as an antiinfective agent.

Silver nitrate topical (for use on the skin) is used to cauterize infected tissues around a skin wound. Silver nitrate can also help create a scab to help stop bleeding from a minor skin wound.

Silver nitrate is also used to help remove warts or skin tags. Silver nitrate topical is not for use in treating genital warts.

Silver nitrate topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Silver nitrate topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Repeated applications of silver nitrate may cause a gray or blue-black discoloration of treated skin. This is caused by the silver component of silver nitrate topical and is generally not harmful. However, silver nitrate can cause skin burns. If you are using this medicine at home, be sure you understand all directions for use and how to quickly neutralize the action of the medicine.

Common side effects of silver nitrate topical may include:

• mild burning or cold sensation where the medicine is applied.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use silver nitrate if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor before using silver nitrate topical if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How should I use silver nitrate topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Silver nitrate topical is only for short-term use.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Silver nitrate applicator sticks are used for wound care, while silver nitrate solution or ointment are generally used for treating warts or skin tags. Do not use silver nitrate wart or skin tag removal products on skin wounds, cuts, or broken skin.

You may be treated with silver nitrate topical in a hospital or clinic setting. If you use this medicine at home, read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Also follow your healthcare provider's instructions about cleaning and caring for your skin wound.

You may need to have sterile water and 0.9% saline solution on hand, to use in caring for your skin wound.

Silver nitrate topical can injure or irritate healthy skin. Always wear latex or nitrile gloves when handling or applying this medicine. Also wear gloves while cleaning the skin wound and preparing it for treatment.

Apply a silver nitrate applicator stick only to the affected skin wound. To protect healthy skin, you may apply petroleum jelly in a circle around the wound. To quickly stop the effects of a silver nitrate applicator stick, apply a generous amount of 0.9% saline solution to the treated skin and then rinse with sterile water.

Silver nitrate can also damage fabric. Avoid getting this medicine on clothing or bed linens.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed or inhaled the medicine.

An overdose of silver nitrate is not likely to occur when silver nitrate topical is used as directed.

What should I avoid while using silver nitrate topical?

Do not get this medicine in your eyes or mouth. If contact does occur, rinse with water.

Also avoid inhaling the medicine.

What other drugs will affect silver nitrate topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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