Medicines
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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Silvadene, Silverlon
Silver is a metallic chemical element with antibacterial properties. Historically, it has been used for various medical purposes, including wound care and as a disinfectant. It exists in various forms, including silver nitrate, silver sulfadiazine, and colloidal silver. However, its widespread use has declined due to the development of more effective and less toxic modern antibiotics. While certain silver compounds still have niche applications, like in wound dressings for burns, concerns remain about its potential toxicity and efficacy.
Used topically as an antimicrobial agent in wound care, particularly for burns.
Outcome:
Increased risk of systemic silver toxicity
Mechanism:
Increased silver absorption.
Outcome:
Decreased effectiveness of sulfonamides
Mechanism:
Silver can inactivate sulfonamides.
Outcome:
Reduced silver absorption
Mechanism:
Some dressings might bind to silver ions.
Most likely new formulation: Topical nanocrystalline silver dressings for enhanced wound healing (2026, 60% confidence)
Based on the current usage trends and development of alternative treatments, the likelihood of new silver-based antibiotics gaining FDA approval in the next 5 years is less than 10%.
Antimicrobial, Topical Agent
Metallic Element