SNAKE VENOM ANTISERUM
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved Snake Venom Antiserum in October 2000. It belongs to the immunoglobulins medication class. This medicine is a combination of antibodies produced in horses and specifically designed to neutralise the venom of certain snakes.
Uses
Snake Venom Antiserum is used to treat snake bites that are caused by venomous snakes, such as cobras, kraits, and mambas. It is also used to treat snake bites caused by non-venomous snakes, such as pythons and boas, if there is a risk of infection.
How is it administered?
Snake Venom Antiserum will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered as an injection in the vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Snake Venom Antiserum are sleepiness, trouble concentrating, pain at injection site, drowsiness, and headache. Serious side effects while taking this medicine are allergic reactions, kidney failure, blood clots.
Warnings
This injection is not recommended for use by people who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the antiserum. It should also not be used by people who have a history of blood clots or kidney problems. Stop using the spray and consult a doctor if you experience rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or any allergic reaction.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Report to your physician immediately if you experience any symptoms, such as an allergic reaction. Report to your doctor if you have any liver, kidney, or heart-related disease.
Word of Advice
Adhere to your doctor's guidance throughout treatment. Report any concerning symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider without delay. Your doctor will advise on any necessary dose modifications. Contact your healthcare provider for further information.
References
B. Kalyan Kumar et al., Antisnake Venom Serum (ASVS), International Journal on Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Research(IJPBR)Vol. 1(3), 2010, 76-89, https://www.academia.edu/19896565/ANTISNAKE_VENOM_SERUM_ASVS_ Bharat Serums And Vaccines Limited, [Accessed on 22nd Sept 2023], http://www.antivenoms.toxinfo.med.tum.de/resources/antivenom_india-bharat-snakevenomantiserum_2015-01-21.pdf KD Tripathi, Vaccines, Antisera and immunoglobulins, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 978-986.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Snake Venom Antiserum if Iâm pregnant?
It is unknown whether Snake Venom Antiserum harms the unborn baby. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant.
Can I use Snake Venom Antiserum with other medications?
Before using this medicine, it is essential to consult your doctor, as they can interact with various other medications. Getting suggestions from your doctor will help ensure the safe and appropriate use of Snake Venom Antiserum with your current medication regimen.
Is it okay to consume alcohol while taking Snake Venom Antiserum?
It is unknown whether consuming alcohol while taking Snake Venom Antiserum is safe. Please speak with your physician.
How do you manage the side effects of Snake Venom Antiserum?
To manage the side effects of Snake Venom Antiserum, follow the prescribed dosage and report side effects promptly. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
What are the common side effects of Snake Venom Antiserum?
The common side effects of Snake Venom Antiserum are pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects.