What are the uses of antivenom?

Antivenom, also known as antivenin or antivenom serum, is a crucial medical intervention used to treat venomous snakebites and bites from other venomous creatures. It is derived from the blood serum of animals that have been immunized with small amounts of venom, resulting in the production of specific antibodies to neutralize venom toxins. Antivenom is administered through injections to patients who have been bitten, helping to counteract the effects of venom and save lives. The primary use of antivenom is to treat envenomation, preventing or reversing systemic damage caused by venom, such as tissue necrosis, hemorrhage, and cardiovascular or neurological complications. Swift administration of the appropriate antivenom in adequate doses is essential to prevent severe morbidity and mortality associated with venomous bites.

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