Antivenom serves as a medical treatment designed to counteract the harmful effects of venom from various creatures, including snakes, spiders, and scorpions. It directly targets and neutralizes toxins that can cause severe tissue damage, disrupt blood clotting, or lead to nervous system problems. Its purpose is to save lives and mitigate serious injury following a venomous bite or sting.
How Antivenom is Produced
Antivenom production involves animals like adult sheep, though the term “lamb’s blood” is not a standard scientific term. While adult sheep can be a source, historically and currently, horses are also commonly used, alongside other animals. The process begins by injecting small, non-lethal doses of venom into an animal, such as a horse or sheep. This stimulates the animal’s immune system to produce antibodies against the venom’s toxins.
Once an immune response develops, blood is collected from the animal. Plasma, containing the venom-neutralizing antibodies, is separated from blood cells. This plasma undergoes purification to isolate and concentrate the antibodies, removing other blood components. The final product is a purified solution of antibodies, which can be administered to patients suffering from envenomation.
Why Specific Animals Are Chosen
Animals are selected for antivenom production due to their biological characteristics and practical advantages. Horses and sheep are chosen for their robust immune systems, capable of generating a strong antibody response to venom. Their size also allows for collecting large quantities of antibody-rich plasma without compromising their health.
Ease of care and management in controlled, licensed facilities contributes to their suitability. While horses have a long history in antivenom production, sheep are also utilized, sometimes producing a higher concentration of antibodies for certain antivenoms. Other animals like goats, camels, rabbits, and chickens can also be used, depending on the specific venom and regional availability.
The Medical Importance of Antivenom
Antivenom is the only specific and effective treatment for envenomation caused by venomous bites and stings. It works by binding to and neutralizing the venom’s toxins, preventing further damage and reversing life-threatening effects. Administered early, antivenoms improve patient outcomes, reducing symptom severity and accelerating recovery.
Snakebite envenoming remains a significant global public health issue, particularly in rural areas of less-developed nations, and is listed as a neglected tropical disease. Antivenoms are included on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, underscoring their importance worldwide. Efforts focus on ensuring the availability, affordability, and safety of these life-saving treatments.