Why is antivenom not administered in every snake bite case?
Answer
It carries risks of allergic reactions, so it is reserved for systemic or severe cases.
Antivenom is a potent treatment, but it is not without risks. It is a biological product that can trigger severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis in some patients. Because of this, medical professionals perform a risk-benefit analysis before administration. In many cases, particularly with the European adder, treatment involves observation, pain management, and fluid support rather than antivenom, unless there is clear evidence of severe systemic envenomation or rapid progression of symptoms that require a more aggressive intervention.
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