No more fear over snakebites; super antivenom to soon hit market

NEW DELHI: A new antivenom capable of neutralising the venom of various cobra species and king cobras will be rolled out soon. This drug, currently in the testing phase, is expected to help reduce fatalities caused by snakebites.

Estimates indicate that over 100,000 people worldwide die from snakebites annually, with nearly half of these deaths occurring in India. The currently available antivenoms are not effective against the venom of different snake species.

Conventional antivenoms are typically produced using horse blood. However, their efficacy varies depending on factors such as the snake species and the nature of the venom. They can also cause side effects, including allergic reactions, in some individuals.

The antivenom currently under development has an efficacy capable of handling venom from different snake species. This new antivenom is formulated using five specific antibody components, known as 'nanobodies' or VHHs. These nanobodies are designed to target three key toxic components found in the venom of the cobra and the king cobra: alpha-neurotoxin, cytotoxin, and phospholipase A2.

Experiments conducted on mice have demonstrated the effectiveness of the new antivenom. Venom from various snake species found across different regions of India was used in the trials. The new antivenom is expected to remain effective despite variations in snake venom composition. This discovery could pave the way for the development of a 'broad-spectrum' antivenom that is effective against bites from a wide range of snakes.

However, it will still take time before the new antivenom can be used on humans. So far, experiments have been conducted only on mice. Detailed safety assessments and clinical trials must be carried out before it can be used on humans.