What Is Snake Venom Antiserum Used For?
The Snake Venom Antiserum is used to treat people who have been bitten by venomous snakes. This antiserum is especially effective against bites from multiple types of snakes, including vipers, cobras, kraits, and other venomous species, depending on the regional formulation.
In areas like Asia, Africa, and South America—where snake bites are more common—this injection plays a critical role in reducing deaths and long-term injuries caused by venom.
Snake Venom Antiserum Ingredients and Composition
The main ingredient in the Snake Venom Antiserum is equine immunoglobulin fragments F(ab’)₂. These are specially prepared antibody fragments that come from horses (equine). Horses are exposed to small, safe amounts of snake venom to stimulate an immune response. The antibodies produced by the horse’s immune system are then collected, purified, and broken down into smaller fragments called F(ab’)₂ fragments. These fragments are safer and more effective in humans than whole antibodies.
Other ingredients may include stabilizers and preservatives to keep the solution sterile and safe for injection. The product comes in a single vial, ready to be administered by a healthcare professional.
Snake Venom Antiserum Mode of Action – How It Works
When someone is bitten by a venomous snake, the venom enters the bloodstream and begins to destroy tissues, affect blood clotting, damage nerves, or cause organ failure, depending on the snake species. The F(ab’)₂ antibody fragments in the antiserum are designed to attach to the venom molecules and block their harmful effects. Once neutralized, the venom is no longer dangerous and can be removed naturally by the body.
Because the F(ab’)₂ fragments are smaller than full antibodies, they can move more easily through the body and reach the venom quickly, leading to a faster and safer response.
Snake Venom Antiserum Dosage and Administration
The dosage of Snake Venom Antiserum depends on the type of snake, the severity of the bite, and the weight and condition of the patient. It is only given in a hospital or clinical setting by a trained healthcare provider.
Typically, treatment starts with one or more vials administered intravenously (through a vein). In severe cases, additional vials may be required until the symptoms begin to improve. Doctors may also monitor the patient’s response and adjust the dose as needed. Supportive care, like fluids and pain relief, is often given at the same time.
How Fast Does It Work?
The antiserum starts working within minutes to a few hours after injection. In most cases, symptoms like swelling, pain, bleeding, or difficulty breathing start to improve within 1 to 6 hours. However, the total recovery time depends on how quickly treatment was started, how much venom was injected, and the type of snake involved. Early treatment is key.
Snake Venom Antiserum Side Effects and Precautions
Like all medications, Snake Venom Antiserum can cause side effects. Since it is made from horse-derived antibodies, some people may have an allergic reaction. Possible side effects include:
- Mild fever or chills
- Skin rash or itching
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Shortness of breath
- Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
To reduce the risk of reactions, doctors may give a small test dose first or pre-medicate with antihistamines or corticosteroids. In case of any severe allergic symptoms, emergency treatment is given immediately.
This injection should only be given under medical supervision, especially in people with a known allergy to horse proteins or a history of serum sickness.
Can I use this injection at home after a snake bite?
No. This injection must be given in a hospital or clinic under the supervision of a doctor. It is not safe or effective to use at home.
Is this antiserum effective against all snakes?
Not always. Some antisera are polyvalent (work against multiple types of snake venom), while others are specific. Doctors will try to match the antiserum based on the type of snake suspected.
What happens if the bite is from a non-venomous snake?
If the snake is not venomous, antiserum is not needed. Doctors may still give supportive care, like antibiotics, to prevent infection.
Can I get bitten again after treatment?
Yes. The antiserum treats only the current bite. It does not protect you from future bites.
Where can you purchase Snake Venom Antiserum Solution for injection in Nigeria?
You can purchase Snake Venom Antiserum Solution for injection online at Drugstore.ng, Nigeria’s largest online pharmacy store
