From the Research
No, silver nitrate should not be administered orally, as it is a caustic chemical compound that can cause severe burns and tissue damage to mucous membranes, including those in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. The most recent and highest quality study on the topic is not directly related to oral administration, but it highlights the potential risks of silver nitrate use, including argyria, a permanent bluish-gray discoloration of the skin 1.
Risks of Silver Nitrate Ingestion
Ingestion of silver nitrate can lead to serious complications, including:
- Corrosive damage to the gastrointestinal tract
- Metabolic acidosis
- Potentially argyria with chronic exposure These risks are supported by various studies, including a case report of a 15-year-old female who intentionally ingested silver nitrate solution, resulting in an excruciating burning sensation in her throat and nostrils, vomiting, and poor oral intake 2.
Medical Use of Silver Nitrate
Any medical use of silver nitrate should be under direct healthcare professional supervision and limited to approved external applications, such as cauterizing wounds, treating warts, or managing certain skin conditions. The use of silver nitrate in dentistry, as described in a 2018 study, is limited to topical application for caries management, and not for oral ingestion 1.
Importance of Supervision and Approved Applications
It is essential to emphasize that silver nitrate should only be used under direct healthcare professional supervision and for approved external applications. Unsupervised use or ingestion of silver nitrate can lead to severe consequences, as highlighted in various case reports and studies 3, 4, 5. If someone has accidentally ingested silver nitrate, they should seek immediate medical attention.