Colloidal Silver Side Effects

There is overwhelming evidence demonstrating the benefits of using colloidal silver as an antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral agent, among others. In contrast, there remains a huge gap regarding potential colloidal silver side effects.

Based on the best available information, there are safety concerns over using silver, whether inhaled, applied to the skin, or taken by mouth. But, the probability of colloidal silver side effects occurring is very rare. These side effects do not occur at random and are preventable. It must be stressed that some forms of silver are unsafe and are not well-tolerated by the human body.

Below is a list of the potential side effects of exposure to silver compounds via different pathways and why these occur.

Argyria and Argyrosis

Argyria is a rare condition where the person affected develops a bluish-grey skin discoloration. This change in skin appearance is most commonly noted on skin areas regularly exposed to sunlight. Both generalized and localized pigmentation have been reported. On the other hand, argyrosis is when the cornea appears bluish-grey, also resulting from exposure to high amounts of silver. On the other hand, in argyrosis, the cornea takes on a bluish-gray hue, which is also the result of an overdose of colloidal silver.

It can take several years for either argyria or argyrosis to manifest. Signs and symptoms depend greatly on the dose of silver entering the body. Most cases of argyria are associated with prolonged and repeated exposure to excessive amounts of soluble silver compounds, that includes silver nitrate and silver fluoride. A higher prevalence in occupational settings has also been noted.[2]

Prolonged exposure to silver compounds like silver nitrate and silver fluoride is often seen in cases of Argyria.

In general, colloidal silver overdose is an infrequent occurrence. Argyria and argyrosis are very rare side effects as a consequence of overdose. Unfortunately, these conditions are irreversible, and no treatment has been found to eliminate the bluish-gray color of the skin. Argyria, however, does not cause any life-threatening side effects.[3]

Acute and Short-Term Impact

Exposure to silver compounds, such as silver nitrate and silver oxide, may irritate the eyes, skin, and throat. [4] It may also limit oxygen supply to the brain and other body parts, making a person feel severely disoriented.

Accidental ingestion of silver may also cause severe stomach problems and difficulty breathing. A case involving an infant who ingested silver presented with a severely burned throat and a collapsed lung.[5]

Chronic and Long-Term Impact

Several studies have shown that silver may be deposited in the liver and other organs in the excretory system. Silver accumulation in soft tissues has also been observed.

However, most available literature concluded from observing animals, and only a limited number of studies involved real people as subjects. There remains limited evidence to conclude that silver deposits cause any chronic disease. More studies show that the body can excrete silver effectively via different routes.[6]

Further, there is also limited evidence to suggest that silver exposure can lead to neurotoxicity. [7]

Again, keep in mind that silver comes in many forms and sizes. Different silver preparations will have unique characteristics affecting their efficacy and safety profile.

To reduce the risks of side effects:

• Buy only coated colloidal silver, which performs better than ionic silver or silver hydrosol and has a cleaner safety profile.
• Follow only the colloidal silver dosage stated on the label and don’t take more than what is necessary. One drop per day will usually suffice to keep your immune system happy.
• If you are taking medications, consult your physician about potential drug reactions before taking silver supplements.

“These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”