#antivenin

• Anavenom — An animal venom (from a snake, scorpion, bee) structurally modified through thermal or chemical treatment (usually with formaldehyde) to completely lose its direct destructive toxicity while keeping its antigenic power intact. This immunological substance is injected in controlled doses to stimulate the production of specific antibodies (antivenom) or for desensitizing allergic patients.
• Antivenom — A biological serum or immunoglobulin pharmaceutical preparation obtained from the plasma of immunized animals, used as an emergency antidote to neutralize specific toxins introduced into the body by the bite or sting of venomous animals (snakes, scorpions, spiders). The macromolecular substance binds directly to circulating venom molecules, blocking their attachment to cellular receptors and preventing lethal neurotoxic or hemolytic effects.
• Antivenomous — Combating, nullifying, or neutralizing the effects of venom; destructive in relation to biological toxins injected by reptiles, insects, or arachnids. It is used almost exclusively in the phrase 'antivenom serum', designating an injectable therapeutic solution containing antibodies ready and capable of blocking the spread of poison within the circulatory system.