About Colloidal Silver Side Effects

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), colloidal silver is made up of tiny silver particles suspended in liquid. Most often sold in supplement form, it is said to be useful for a variety of health issues. However, there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness or safety.

• Liquid silver

History

• The NCCAM reports that colloidal silver, a metallic element, has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. Modern drugs have eliminated the use of silver except in a few topical prescription medications. The drug silver sulfadiazine is used to treat burns. Silver nitrate is used in the prevention of conjunctivitis in newborns and in the treatment of certain skin conditions. Unlike supplements, these two drugs are not taken internally.

Side Effects

• According to the NCCAM, a buildup of colloidal silver in the body can cause argyria. Argyria causes a blue-gray to black-gray discoloration of the skin, other organs, the nails, gum and deep tissues; it is permanent and cannot be reversed. Additional side effects can include seizures, kidney damage, headaches, fatigue, skin irritation and stomach problems. Pregnant women are advised not to consume colloidal silver supplements because it can cause fetal abnormalities.

Claims

• According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, silver medicinals were used to treat disorders such as gonorrhea, colds and epilepsy. By the mid 20th century, silver was replaced with what is considered safer therapies. However, interest is growing in using silver orally in alternative medicine. Without the benefit of clinical data, supplements are being touted as a cure for cancer, diabetes, tuberculosis, shingles, pneumonia, herpes and AIDS.

Interactions

• The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports that there can be herb-drug interactions. The bioavailability of antibiotics such as tetracycline and quinolone can be reduced by taking colloidal silver. Colloidal silver can also reduce the effectiveness of penicillamine by binding to the drug.

When Using Colloidal SIlver

• According to the NCCAM, supplements should not be used as a replacement for conventional care; do not postpone seeing your health care provider about a medical problem. If pregnant or nursing, or planning to give the supplement to a child, consult your doctor as colloidal silver supplements can act like a drug in the body. Tell your doctor about all other drugs, herbs, vitamins and minerals that you are taking before adding a supplement.

Warnings

• Manufacturers of dietary supplements, unlike drug manufacturers, do not have to prove the safety and effectiveness of their product before it is marketed. After the drug has been marketed, if it is found to be unsafe, the FDA can remove it from the marketplace. In 1999, the FDA issued a ruling that products containing colloidal silver are generally recognized as unsafe and ineffective.