Myths About Treatments for North American Pit Viper Envenomation
Treatments Not Proven to be Beneficial in the Management of Pit Viper Envenomation1:
The Unified Treatment Algorithm is a comprehensive procedure based on expert recommendations for proper treatment in event of a pit viper snakebite.
- Cutting and/or suctioning of the wound
- Ice
- NSAIDs
- Prophylactic antibiotics
- Prophylactic fasciotomy
- Routine use of blood products
- Steroids (except for allergic phenomena)
- Tourniquets
To learn how experts recommend treating, view the Unified Treatment Algorithm
Recommendations for
the management of
North American pit viper
envenomation
REFERENCES
1. Lavonas EJ, Ruha AM, Banner W, et al. Unified treatment algorithm for the management of crotaline snakebite in the United States: results of an evidence-informed consensus workshop. BMC Emerg Med. 2011;11:2. 2. CroFab® [prescribing Information]. BTG International Inc.; August 2018.