Antivenoms: What They Are and How They Work
Antivenoms are life-saving medicines created by injecting venom into animals (often horses), leading them to produce antibodies that neutralize venom.
Snake venom is lethal due to toxins like haemotoxins, neurotoxins, and cytotoxins, which damage blood cells, paralyze nerves, and destroy tissue.
Antivenoms bind to these toxins, rendering them ineffective, but treatment success depends on identifying the snake species and venom quantity.
Snakebite Prevalence and Risk in India
India is home to over 300 snake species, with more than 60 venomous ones, contributing to significant snakebite deaths, especially from the Big Four: Indian cobra, common krait, Russell’s viper, and saw-scaled viper.
Other venomous snakes remain untreated by current antivenoms, leading to higher fatalities.
Studies estimate 1.2 million snakebite deaths and millions more disabilities in India between 2001-2014, with agricultural workers and rural populations most affected.
Challenges in Antivenom Accessibility
Despite being the largest producer of antivenoms, access remains difficult, especially in remote areas where people face long travel times to reach healthcare facilities.
Improper storage and administration, lack of cold storage, and inadequate infrastructure reduce antivenom effectiveness.
High production costs make antivenoms unaffordable for the economically disadvantaged.
Snakebite Treatment Difficulties
Logistical issues, cultural beliefs, and delays in treatment exacerbate the problem.
Many rural areas lack adequate healthcare resources, leading to ineffective treatment or delays in receiving the necessary care.
The Future of Antivenoms: Innovations
Researchers are developing synthetic antivenoms using recombinant DNA technology, which are free from animal-derived proteins and offer greater safety and efficacy.
AI and computer-designed proteins hold promise for more effective, faster antivenom development, and region-specific antivenoms could provide tailored treatments.
Continued research, infrastructure improvements, and education are essential to combat India’s snakebite crisis.
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