ANTI SNAKE VENOM

Description

Anti-snake venom (ASV), also called antivenin, is a life-saving treatment used to counteract the effects of venom injected during a snakebite. It is produced by immunizing animals (commonly horses) with small, non-lethal doses of venom from venomous snakes. The animals then develop antibodies, which are harvested and purified to create the antivenom.

There are two main types of ASV:

1. Monovalent ASV – targets venom from a single species.

2. Polyvalent ASV – neutralizes venom from multiple species; commonly used in regions like India due to the prevalence of several venomous snakes.

In India, the commonly targeted “Big Four” snakes include:

• Indian Cobra (Naja naja)

• Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus)

• Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)

• Saw-scaled Viper (Echis carinatus)

Indications:

• Signs of systemic envenomation (e.g., neurotoxicity, coagulopathy, shock).

• Local symptoms progressing (e.g., swelling, blistering, necrosis).

• Confirmed or suspected venomous snakebite.

Administration:

• Administered intravenously in a hospital setting.

• Dosage depends on severity, species involved, and patient response.

• Supportive care (like fluids, pain management, and ventilation in neurotoxic cases) is often necessary alongside ASV.

Precautions & Side Effects:

• Risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis; pre-medication with antihistamines or corticosteroids may be required.

• Serum sickness (delayed allergic reaction) may occur days later.

• Requires immediate availability of emergency resuscitation measures.