How Snake Antivenom is made and Why Horses Are Used

Snake antivenom is one of the most vital life-saving medicines in the world. In countries like India, where snakebites are common, it plays a crucial role in saving lives.

Understanding how snake antivenom is made helps us appreciate the blend of science, biology, and medical expertise that makes this miracle possible.

The Process of Making Snake Antivenom

1. Snake Venom Collection

The process starts with trained snake handlers. They carefully extract venom by letting a snake bite into a membrane-covered container. This step is called “milking” the snake.

2. Preparation

The venom is freeze-dried and diluted. In some cases, it is detoxified to make it safer before use in immunization.

3. Immunization of Host Animals

Small, non-lethal doses of venom are injected into large animals such as horses. Over time, their immune system builds antibodies against the venom toxins.

4. Blood Collection and Plasma Separation

When the horse has developed enough antibodies, blood is drawn. Plasma (the part that contains antibodies) is separated, while the red blood cells are safely returned to the horse.

5. Antibody Purification

The plasma is processed to extract immunoglobulins (antibodies). To reduce allergic reactions in humans, the antibodies may be fragmented into F(ab’)₂.

6. Formulation and Packaging

The purified antibodies are sterilized and tested for safety. They are then packaged into liquid or freeze-dried vials. These vials are used in hospitals as antivenom injections.

Why Are Horses Used to Make Antivenom in India?

Horses are the preferred choice because:

• They can tolerate repeated small doses of venom.

• They produce a large amount of blood, providing more antibodies.

• Their immune systems are strong and highly responsive.

Are Sheep Naturally Immune to Snake Venom?

No, sheep are not naturally immune. However, they can be immunized like horses to produce antibodies. In fact, in Australia, sheep have been used in certain venom studies. Still, horses remain the global standard.

Which Animal is Immune to Snake Venom?

Some animals have natural resistance:

• Mongooses are resistant to cobra venom due to unique receptors.

• Honey badgers and hedgehogs also have high resistance.

• Certain snakes are immune to their venom.

What Are the 3 Types of Snake Venom?

Snake venoms affect the body in different ways:

1. Neurotoxic venom – Damages the nervous system (cobras, kraits).

2. Hemotoxic venom – Affects blood clotting and vessels (vipers).

3. Cytotoxic venom – Destroys tissues and causes necrosis (some pit vipers, spitting cobras).

Venomous vs. Poisonous – The Difference

• Venomous animals inject toxins actively (snakes, scorpions, spiders).

• Poisonous animals or plants release toxins when eaten or touched (poison dart frogs, certain mushrooms).

👉 Snakes are venomous, not poisonous.

FAQs

1. What is the chemical name of snake poison?

Snake venom is not a single compound. It is a complex mix of proteins, enzymes, and toxins such as neurotoxins and phospholipases.

2. What is the most poisonous snake in the world?

The word “poisonous” is misleading. The correct term is venomous. However, some snakes like the Rhabdophis keelback are both venomous and poisonous.

3. What is the most venomous snake in the world?

The Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus), also called the “fierce snake,” is the most venomous snake in the world. One bite could kill multiple humans if untreated.

Final Thoughts

Snake antivenom is truly a medical miracle. From venom collection to antibody production in horses, every step shows the deep connection between science and nature.

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