Safe and effective antivenoms are available for all neurotoxic/hemo/cytotoxic pit viper envenomations and for neurotoxic coral snake envenomations in this AOR. Treatment does not require identification of the species responsible. Snakebite treatment at the point of injury is not routinely recommended for NORTHCOM.
For all NORTHCOM antivenoms, refer to the package insert in the antivenom box for specific usage instructions as per FDA regulations for domestically approved products. Also see Unified treatment algorithm for the management of crotaline snakebite in the U.S. (Lavonas et al. 2011) for dosing and management guidelines on pit viper bites.101 This section provides specifics about antivenoms use in this region.
Adverse Reaction Management
Sudden Collapse Syndrome Treatment Protocol
Patient presents within 30 minutes of the bite with rapid onset shock ± angioedema, altered mental status, systemic bleeding, and diarrhea.1
See Sudden Collapse Syndrome section for more information.
CONTACT
For emergency consultations, call the ADVISOR telemedicine hotline (866-972-9966) and select toxicology from the phone menu.
For additional information about snake bite management or this CPG, email jordan@snakebitefoundation.org or call 415-218-2211.