Presentation
Freeze-dried powder
Keep Refrigerated
Contains
125 units Funnel Web Spider Antivenom
Role
Management of severe funnel web spider envenoming with symptoms of autonomic excitation, neuromuscular excitation, cardiorespiratory effects and/or CNS effects.
Consultation with a clinical toxicologist is recommended through local toxicology service or Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26.
Dose
Adults and children
2 vials administered by slow IV injection following a 1:10 dilution with sodium chloride 0.9%. Dilution can be 1:5 in young children or patients on fluid restriction.
Stocking recommendations for for South East Queensland
| Tertiary centre | Regional centre | Rural centre | Remote centre |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-4 vials | 0-2 vials | 0-2 vials | 0 vials |
Rationale
Severe funnel web spider envenomation in Queensland is rare. Further doses beyond 2 vials are usually not required.
Precautions
- Hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Antivenom should be administered in a critical care area in anticipation of potential anaphylaxis.
- Premedication with steroids/adrenaline is not recommended.
- If a hypersensitivity reaction occurs, pause the infusion and treat along standard lines. Recommence the infusion once the reaction settles at a slower rate.
- If the hypersensitivity reaction is severe, discuss the case with a clinical toxicologist.
Serum sickness may occur 4 to 14 days following the administration of antivenom. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, headache, nausea and vomiting. Patients should be informed of the symptoms and present to their local doctor should they occur.
Disclaimer
Fact sheet developed by Queensland Poisons Information Centre.
This fact sheet is about the use of these antidotes in Australia, and may not apply to other countries. Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of information, omissions of information, or any actions that may be taken as a consequence of reading this fact sheet.