SAVP Scorpion Antivenom

The development of snake antivenom in South Africa began in 1901 by Dr Watkins-Pitchfont at the South African Institute for Medical Research (SAIMR) in Pietermaritzburg. In the 1940’s the SAIMR developed and started production of scorpion antivenom, on request from the Union Defence Medical Services to treat troops stationed in areas of Southern Africa inhabited by highly venomous scorpions. After development and production, the commercialisation of antivenom was handed over to the South African Vaccine Producers (SAVP) at the National Health Laboratories in Johannesburg, South Africa. Horses were found to be most suitable for the manufacturing of antivenoms

SAVP scorpion antivenom is manufactured using venom harvested from the Transvaal Thick-Tail Scorpion, supplied by various venom farms in South Africa according to stringent international guidelines. Horses are immunised with venom over an extended period. Initially, the horse is given a tiny dose of venom, and over time this dose is increased. In response to the toxins in the venom, the horse develops an immune response and  the horses white blood cells produce antibodies. After a few months, blood is extracted from the horse and the serum containing the antibodies is collected. What is left of the blood is put back into the horse. The horse serum is processed and a preservative is added. Concentrated horse antibodies represent the active ingredient in antivenom.

SAVP scorpion antivenom is a liquid, packaged in 5ml glass ampoules. It is a schedule 4 drug that should be stored between 2°C and 8°C, and has a shelf life of 3 years from date of manufacture. SAVP antivenom is recommended where systemic symptoms occur (class 3 or 4 symptoms), especially where high risk species, in particular the Granulated Thick-Tail Scorpion and Transvaal Thick-Tail Scorpion are involved and the patient is a child or the aged.

Antivenoms work by boosting and supporting the immune response in the patient. An initial dose of 10ml (2 ampoules) is required intravenously, with an additional dose of 5ml (1 ampoule) every 6 hours until the symptoms improve. This  additional dose is not always necessary. The same dose is used for children, adults and animals (if possible). The effectiveness of antivenom is gradual, peaking between 2 and 6 hours after administration. SAVP scorpion antivenom is ineffective at treating a patient who has venom in the eyes. Allergic reactions to SAVP scorpion antivenom are uncommon or usually mild.

SAVP antivenom is the only product that is effective for class 3 and 4 symptoms in Southern Africa. As new snake antivenoms from other manufacturers are beginning to be tested and registered for use, there may be an alternative to SAVP scorpion antivenom in the future.