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Antivenom (Centruroides scorpion)

Generic name: antivenom (Centruroides scorpion) [ AN-tee-VEN-um ]
Brand name: Anascorp
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (-)
Drug class: Antitoxins and antivenins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 14, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is this antivenom (Centruroides scorpion)?

Centruroides scorpion antivenom is used to treat a person who has been stung by a scorpion.

Antivenom (Centruroides scorpion) may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

This antivenom side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a fever, swollen glands, muscle pain, joint pain (which may occur up to 2 weeks after the injection is given).

Common side effects of antivenom may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

If you receive this antivenom during an emergency, make sure any follow-up doctor knows you received antivenom.

Before taking this medicine

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you are allergic to horses, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Centruroides scorpion antivenom is made from horse plasma and may contain viruses or other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of contamination, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Ask your doctor about any possible risk.

Make sure any follow-up doctor knows you received this medicine.

How is this antivenom given?

You should receive Centruroides scorpion antivenom as soon as possible after you first have symptoms of a scorpion sting (such as slurred speech, increased salivation, vomiting, feeling short of breath, abnormal eye movements, or loss of muscle control).

Centruroides scorpion antivenom is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

This antivenom must be given over 10 minutes.

You will be watched for up to 60 minutes to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

You may need to additional doses every 30 to 60 minutes.

Your doctor will need to check your progress at a follow-up visit.

Antivenom dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Venomous Scorpion Bite:

Initial dose: 3 vials, IV over 10 minutes

If needed after initial dose: 1 vial, IV over 10 minutes, every 30 to 60 minutes

Comments:
-Start as soon as possible after scorpion sting in those with clinically important signs of envenomation (e.g. loss of muscle control, roving/abnormal eye movements, slurred speech, respiratory distress, excessive salivation, frothing at the mouth, vomiting).
-Monitor patient closely during, and up to 60 minutes after, infusion to see if clinically important envenomation symptoms resolve.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Venomous Scorpion Bite:

Initial dose: 3 vials, IV over 10 minutes

If needed after initial dose: 1 vial, IV over 10 minutes, every 30 to 60 minutes

Comments:
-Start as soon as possible after scorpion sting in those with clinically important signs of envenomation (e.g. loss of muscle control, roving/abnormal eye movements, slurred speech, respiratory distress, excessive salivation, frothing at the mouth, vomiting).
-Monitor patient closely during, and up to 60 minutes after, infusion to see if clinically important envenomation symptoms resolve.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In an emergency medical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid after receiving this antivenom?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect this antivenom?

Other drugs may affect Centruroides scorpion antivenom, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.