Evidence supporting the use of: Metal Salt
For the health condition: Conjunctivitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Certain metal salts, particularly silver nitrate and zinc sulfate, have a documented history of use in the treatment and prevention of conjunctivitis, especially in the context of neonatal ophthalmia. Silver nitrate was historically used as a prophylactic treatment in newborns to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia, a severe form of conjunctivitis, following the Credé prophylaxis method introduced in the late 19th century. The antimicrobial properties of silver ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit their proliferation, which underlies their effectiveness. However, silver nitrate can also cause chemical conjunctivitis as a side effect, leading many regions to replace it with antibiotics such as erythromycin. Zinc sulfate solutions have also been used in the management of conjunctivitis due to their astringent and mild antiseptic properties. Some studies have shown that zinc ions can inhibit the adhesion and growth of certain ocular pathogens. However, the overall evidence base for zinc salts is less robust compared to antibiotics, and their use is less common in modern clinical practice. Other metal salts (e.g., copper or mercury compounds) were used historically but are now considered obsolete due to toxicity concerns and the availability of safer, more effective agents. In summary, while there is scientific validation for some metal salts in the treatment or prevention of conjunctivitis, their use has declined with the advent of safer, targeted therapies.

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