Antivenin (black Widow Spider) Side Effects
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 9, 2024.
Applies to antivenin (black widow spider): injection powder for solution.
Precautions
Your doctor will check your progress closely while you are receiving this medicine. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to receive it.
This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. The most serious signs of this reaction are very fast or irregular breathing, gasping for breath, wheezing, or fainting. Other signs may include changes in color of the skin of the face, very fast but irregular heartbeat or pulse, hive-like swellings on the skin, and puffiness or swellings of the eyelids or around the eyes. If these side effects occur, tell your doctor right away.
Check with your doctor right away if you have a feeling of discomfort, fever, inflammation of the joints, itching, muscle aches, rash, or swollen lymph glands within 8 to 12 days after receiving this medicine.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, antivenin (black widow spider) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking antivenin (black widow spider):
Incidence not known
- cough
- difficulty with swallowing
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- feeling of discomfort
- fever
- hives
- inflammation of the joints
- itching
- muscle aches or cramps
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- reddening of the skin, especially around the ears
- shortness of breath
- skin rash
- swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the nose
- swollen lymph glands
- tightness in the chest
- unusual tiredness or weakness (sudden and severe)
See also:
For healthcare professionals
Applies to antivenin (black widow spider): injectable powder for injection.
Hypersensitivity adverse events
- Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and serum sickness[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
- Frequency not reported: Muscle cramps
References
1. (2022) "Product Information. Antivenin (Latrodectus mactans) (antivenin (black widow spider))." Merck & Co., Inc
More about antivenin (black widow spider)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: antitoxins and antivenins
Patient resources
Professional resources
Related treatment guides
Further information
Antivenin (black widow spider) side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.