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Dosage/Direction for Use
Intravenous Envenomation caused by snake bites Adult: Doses are based according to species of snake, severity of signs and symptoms, and tolerance of the patient. For the treatment of North American coral snake bite: Usual recommended initial dose: 3-5 vials by slow inj, additional vials may be given as necessary. For the treatment of North American crotalid snake bite: Recommended initial dose: 4-6 vials, additional vials may be given as necessary. Upon stabilization, 2 vials 6 hourly may be given. For the treatment of tiger snake, black snake, brown snake, sea snake, death adder, and taipan bite: Initially, 1 vial via IV infusion. Dosage recommendations may vary among countries or individual products. Refer to specific product guidelines. Child: Same as adult dose. |
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Contraindications
Concurrent use with opioids or other analgesics that suppress respiration.
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Special Precautions
Patient with asthma, hay fever, or urticaria. Hypersensitivity to horses or horse-based products; papaya or papain (North American crotalid antivenin). Not for prophylactic use in asymptomatic patient. Pregnancy and lactation. Monitoring Parameters Monitor the emergence of symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions; resolution of symptoms of envenomation. Monitor respiratory function and oxygenation; urine for hemoglobinuria.
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Adverse Reactions
Significant: Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. anaphylaxis), delayed serum sickness.
Cardiac disorders: Chest pain.
Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea.
General disorders and administration site conditions: Local injection site reactions, pyrexia, chills.
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Myalgia.
Nervous system disorders: Headache.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Rash, urticaria.
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Drug Interactions
May prolong and potentiate the severity of acute anaphylaxis with β-blockers.
Potentially Fatal: May increase the risk of respiratory depression with opioids. |
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Action
Snake venom antisera is prepared from the plasma of animals such as horses and sheep immunised with the venom of snakes. It contains a standardized amount of specific antibodies that bind to venom fractions, thereby neutralising its activity and promoting clearance.
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Storage
Intravenous: Store between 2-8°C. Do not freeze.
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CIMS Class
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ATC Classification
J06AA03 - snake venom antiserum ; Belongs to the class of immune sera. Used in the treatment of acute infectious diseases caused by toxigenic strains.
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