Silver Nitrate Sticks
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Topical caustic/escharotic agent for treatment of exuberant granulation tissue (proud flesh), warts, and minor wound cauterization in horses and small animals.
Caustic silver salt (AgNO3) applicator sticks. Mechanism: silver ions precipitate tissue proteins → cauterization and eschar formation; also bactericidal via silver ion release. Topical application to exuberant granulation tissue (proud flesh) in horses causes controlled chemical cauterization reducing excess tissue. Also used for minor wound hemostasis.
Key information
Topical caustic — for proud flesh/granulation tissue reduction. Wear gloves and eye protection. Very caustic — protect surrounding tissue. Do not use in wounds that are not fully debrided.
How to Give this Medication
Topical cream: apply to wound surface using gloved hands or sterile applicator. Cover with non-adherent dressing. Change daily. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Same as silvadene. Transient leukopenia (large-area application). Sulfonamide hypersensitivity. Local burning on application. Argyria (very rare).
Precautions
For animals
See silvadene. Sulfonamide hypersensitivity. Monitor WBC with large-area use. Avoid in neonates.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Silver sulfonamide — wear gloves. Sulfonamide allergy risk. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Silver nitrate is caustic — excessive use causes tissue damage and potentially systemic silver absorption (argyria).
Silver Nitrate Sticks dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAFCO SILVR MIS NIT APPL | — | — | — | Commercial |
| SILVER NITRATE STICKS | — | — | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)