McKenna's Drug Handbook for Nursing & Midwifery, 7e

1292      Miscellaneous drug categories

weeks and there are reports of satisfactory use of the antivenom to alleviate these symptoms up to 10 days after a confirmed redback spider bite. • As product is sourced from horse plasma, potential for transmission of infectious disease cannot be ruled out. • Anaphylactic reactions may be more likely in individuals who are atopic, have previously received equine serum or are receiving antivenom by IV route. • Although considered controversial, indi­ viduals at risk of anaphylactic reactions may be given premedication with adrenaline and antihistamine. • Have adrenaline 1:1000 available in case of anaphylactic reaction. • Severe cases should be managed in intensive care unit. • Monitor for delayed serum sickness within 8–13 days after the administration of antivenom, manifestedby albuminaemia, arthralgia, fever, lymphadenopathy and skin eruptions. • Monitor the person closely after admin­ istering antivenom. Patient teaching • Advise person of risk of possible infectious disease transmission as venom is sourced from horse serum. • Instruct person to report any adverse effects—such as shortness of breath, itching, skin swelling, fever or chest pain— immediately. sea snake antivenom Sea Snake Antivenom Concentrate for Infusion Pregnancy risk category NR Use in sport: Permitted Available form Solution for infusion: 1000 U/vial

redback spider antivenom Redback Spider Antivenom Solution for Injection Pregnancy risk category NR Use in sport: Permitted Available form Solution for infusion: 500 U/vial Indications & dosages ➤ Treatment of systemic envenoming from redbackspiderbite— Adults and children: 500 U by IM injection. In case of severe envenoming, may be given by IV injection diluted 1:10 in Hartmann’s solution. If venom’s effects not completely reversed after 2 hours, a second injection of antivenom may be administered. Action Antivenom derived from horse plasma, effective against venom from redback spider ( Latrodectus hasselti ). Route Onset Peak Duration IV Unknown Unknown Unknown IM Unknown Unknown Unknown Adverse reactions CNS: headache. Skin: injection site reaction, urticaria, rash. Musculoskeletal: chest pain, myalgia. Other: allergic reactions, anaphylaxis , delayed serum sickness , chills, lympha­ denopathy, pyrexia. Interactions None reported. Contraindications Should not be used unless there is evidence of systemic envenoming with potential for serious toxic effects. care considerations • The effects of the venom, particularly severe pain, may persist for days or even

Reactions may be common , uncommon, life-threatening , or commonandlife-threatening.