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Latrodectus mactans (black widow spider) antivenin
Indications: black widow spider bite.
Contraindications: allergy to horse serum
pregnancy-category C
safety in lactation ?
Dosage:
1) initial intradermal skin test prior to administration
- 1 mL vial of equine serum for sensitivity testing comes with antivenin
2) adults: 1 vial (2.5 mL, 6000 units) IM/IV
3) children < 12 years: 2.5 mL in 10-50 mL saline over 15 minutes
4) contact regional poison control center if consultation is required
Pharmacokinetics: elimination: liver
Adverse effects:
- not common (1-10%)
a) shock
b) edema of the face
c) apprehension
d) peripheral neuritis
e) urticaria
f) muscle weakness
g) anaphylaxis
h) serum sickness
Related
Latrodectus mactans (black widow spider)
spider bite
General
antivenin
References
- The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th ed.
Gilman et al, eds. Permagon Press/McGraw Hill, 1996
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Regional Drug
Formulary, 1998