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Snake Venom Antesrum IV Inj. 1`s
Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) is a critical, life-saving antidote used for the emergency treatment of snakebite envenomation caused by the major venomous snake species (the “Big Four” in many regions: Cobra, Common Krait, Russell’s Viper, and Saw-Scaled Viper). Buy this lifesaving antivenom online at PakMeds for quick deliveries and timely care.
₨ 3,010
| Manufacturer | AMSON Vaccines & Pharma, CSL Behring, Haffkine, Bharat Serums, etc. (Manufacturer varies by region) |
| Active Ingredients | Snake Venom Antiserum (Polyvalent Equine Immunoglobulins) |
| Medicine Strength | Typically 10 mL vial (Lyophilized Powder or Liquid Solution) |
| Formulation | Lyophilized Powder (Freeze-Dried) or Ready-to-use Liquid |
| Requires Prescription? | Yes (Emergency/Hospital use only) |
| Generics | Snake Venom Antiserum, Antivenin |
Anti-Snake Venom Ingredients and Usage
ASV is a refined and concentrated preparation of immunoglobulins (antibodies). The polyvalent form contains antibodies effective against the venoms of multiple species of medically significant snakes in a given geographic region.
ASV is the definitive treatment for patients showing clinical signs of envenomation, including:
- Systemic Effects: Signs of shock, difficulty breathing (due to neurotoxicity/paralysis), and spontaneous bleeding (due to coagulopathy).
- Local Effects: Rapidly progressive, extensive swelling, pain, and tissue necrosis at the bite site.
How Does Anti-Snake Venom Work?
ASV works on the principle of passive immunization:
- Direct Binding: The antibodies in the ASV are specific to the toxins in the snake venom. Once infused, they rapidly bind directly to the venom molecules in the bloodstream.
- Neutralization: This binding neutralizes the venom, preventing it from attaching to and damaging target cells, tissues, nerves, or blood components.
- Elimination: The neutralized venom-antibody complexes are then safely cleared from the body by the patient’s immune system (specifically, the reticuloendothelial system).
For best results, ASV must be administered as soon as possible after the snakebite.
Anti-Snake Venom Side Effects and Warnings
Since ASV is a heterologous serum (derived from a non-human species, usually horses), the risk of adverse reactions is significant and must be anticipated and managed.
Critical Warnings and Precautions:
- Acute Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immediate reactions, including anaphylactic shock, are the most severe risk. Symptoms include severe hypotension, difficulty breathing (bronchospasm), and severe urticaria (hives). Adrenaline (Epinephrine), antihistamines, and steroids must be immediately available.
- Delayed Reactions (Serum Sickness): A delayed type of allergic reaction may occur 5 to 14 days after administration. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain (arthralgia), and lymphadenopathy.
- Administration: ASV is always administered intravenously (IV), usually diluted in a solution like normal saline and infused slowly. A sensitivity test may be performed before administration, and the patient is closely monitored throughout the entire procedure.
- The Risk vs. Benefit: Despite the risk of severe side effects, ASV should NEVER be withheld if clinical signs of life-threatening envenomation are present, as the snake venom is far more dangerous than the antidote when the antidote is properly managed.
Anti-Snake Venom Storage Conditions
Proper storage is essential to maintain the efficacy of the antibodies:
- Liquid ASV: Must be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
- Lyophilized ASV (Powder): Can often be stored at room temperature (below 25°C or 30°C) in a cool, dark place. The lyophilized form is more stable and often preferred for remote locations.
- Protection: Keep the vials in the original carton to protect them from light.
- Inspection: The reconstituted solution should be clear. If the liquid form is turbid, or the reconstituted solution is not clear, it must be discarded.
