Silver Nitrate
Silver nitrate is a topical antiseptic and caustic agent used primarily for skin disinfection and chemical cautery. It works by releasing silver ions that damage bacterial cells and tissue, making it effective against various pathogens while also destroying excess tissue.
Silver nitrate is a topical antiseptic and caustic agent used for skin disinfection and tissue removal.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D08AL01
- RxNorm
- 9873
- Generic
- Silver Nitrate
- Class
- atc-d08
- Brands
- Styptstix, Avoca
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 1
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- applicator stick, caustic pencil, aqueous solution, ointment
- Regions
- United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European Union, India
- Monitoring
- local tissue necrosis, argyria with repeated use, skin staining
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Silver nitrate is used for topical antisepsis of skin and mucous membranes, chemical cautery of wounds and bleeding surfaces, removal of granulation tissue and warts, and historically for prevention of neonatal ophthalmia neonatorum.
Silver nitrate releases silver ions that bind to bacterial cell wall proteins and DNA, causing cellular damage and death. Its caustic effect also destroys tissue through protein coagulation, making it useful for hemostasis and tissue ablation.
For topical use only; avoid contact with eyes as it can cause severe irritation. May permanently stain skin and clothing black (argyria). Should not be applied to large body surface areas. Use with caution in individuals with silver sensitivity or on broken skin for extended periods.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy