Related Experiment Videos
Risk of immediate effects from F(ab)2 bivalent antivenin in Taiwan
J C Chen1, M J Bullard, T F Chiu
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kweishan Hsiang, Taoyuan Hsien, Taiwan, ROC. a9999999@ms3.hinet.net
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|October 31, 2000
Summary
Equine fragment antigen binding F(ab)2 bivalent antivenin from Taiwan
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Snakebite envenomation remains a significant public health concern globally.
- Antivenoms are the primary treatment for snakebite, but adverse reactions can occur.
- The National Institute of Preventive Medicine (NIPM) in Taiwan produces equine F(ab)2 bivalent antivenin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence of immediate adverse effects associated with NIPM's equine F(ab)2 bivalent antivenin.
- To assess the safety profile of this specific antivenom in a clinical setting.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted.
- Data from snakebite patients treated with NIPM antivenin at a 600-bed general hospital over three years were analyzed.
- Patient demographics, antivenom administration, and adverse events were recorded.
Main Results:
- 130 snakebite victims received 159 vials of antivenom.
- Pretreatment with diphenhydramine and hydrocortisone reduced skin reactions; only one patient developed a rash.
- No patients experienced anaphylactic reactions, indicating a low incidence of severe adverse events.
Conclusions:
- The NIPM equine F(ab)2 bivalent antivenin demonstrates a very low risk of acute adverse reactions in snakebite victims.
- This antivenom appears to be safe for clinical use in Taiwan.
- Prophylactic measures effectively mitigate minor adverse reactions like skin rashes.