Botulism antitoxin Disease Interactions

Severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reactions may occur following botulism antitoxins (Equine) administration. Patients who have had previous therapy with an equine-derived antivenom/antitoxin, with a history of hypersensitivity to horses, asthma, or hay fever are at a greater risk for developing severe hypersensitivity reactions to these agents. Carefully observe patients for signs and symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction at the onset and throughout the infusion period and immediately following the infusion. Reduce the rate of infusion if the patient experiences infusion reactions and administer symptomatic therapy. If symptoms worsen, discontinue the infusion and administer appropriate medical care. Administer these agents in a setting with appropriate equipment, medication including epinephrine, and personnel trained in the management of hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis, and shock.

The maltose contained in botulism antitoxin heptavalent (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) - (Equine) sterile solution for injection can interfere with some types of blood glucose monitoring systems, such as those based on glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinoline-quinone method and result in falsely elevated glucose readings. Care and close monitoring of blood glucose levels is recommended when using this agent in diabetic patients as cases of true hypoglycemia may go untreated if the hypoglycemic state is masked by falsely elevated results.