The present invention provides novel antimicrobial polyurethane compositions having excellent mechanical and biocompatibility properties, and methods to prepare them. The antimicrobial polyurethane compositions include a homogenous distribution of silver ions by incorporating this antimicrobial agent into the composition prior to the complete polymerization of the polyurethane. In preferred embodiments, the silver ion is associated with a carrier, such as zirconium phosphate or soluble glass powder. The present invention also includes components made from the antimicrobial polyurethane compositions, such as medical devices.