Black Widow Spider Antivenin injection

Black widow antivenom (antivenin) protects you from the toxic effects of a black widow spider bite. Black widow spider bites cause an immediate, sharp, pinprick-like pain. The bite area then becomes numb and you may experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing.

What is this medication?

BLACK WIDOW SPIDER ANTIVENIN (blak WID oh SPAHY der an tee VEN in) is used to protect from the toxic effects of the black widow spider bite.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Antivenin (Black Widow Spider)

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to black widow spider antivenin, horse serum, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for injection or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • fever
  • joint pain
  • skin lesion
  • swollen lymph nodes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • muscle pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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