Silver Nitrate 0.5% Solution
Brand names: Silver Nitrate Solution
Dilute silver nitrate solution is a topical antimicrobial historically used as a soak or dressing for burn wounds to reduce bacterial colonisation, and the more concentrated form is used to cauterise overgranulation tissue.
We found no UK product information (SmPC) for this medicine or presentation on the eMC or MHRA Products (checked October 2026). It may be unlicensed in the UK, imported, a medical device, or no longer marketed. ClinCalc Pro shows only doses it can trace to official product information, so none is shown — follow your specialist service or local guideline.
Clinical monograph
How it works
Silver ions exert broad antibacterial activity by binding microbial proteins and nucleic acids and disrupting bacterial cell function, limiting wound colonisation at the surface.
Prescribing in practice
- Prolonged or extensive use can cause electrolyte disturbance, particularly hyponatraemia, through leaching across the wound, so monitor electrolytes during burns soaks.
- It stains skin, dressings and surfaces black and the concentrated cautery form is caustic, so protect surrounding healthy tissue.
- Use dilute solution for antimicrobial burns care per local protocols and current prescribing references, distinguishing it clearly from cautery sticks.
Monitoring
Monitor serum electrolytes and wound status during prolonged silver nitrate dressing use, especially over large burn areas.
Counselling the patient
- Explain that the solution helps keep the burn wound clean but will stain the skin and dressings dark.
- Advise the team to monitor blood tests for salt levels during extended use.
- Report any new confusion, weakness or wound deterioration.
Evidence & guidelines
Dilute silver nitrate is a long-standing topical burns antimicrobial; its risk of electrolyte disturbance with extensive use is well described in burns care references.
Reference: BBA Burns Wound Care Guidelines; Herndon DN, Total Burn Care 5th Ed; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).