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What organic matter does snake venom consist of? Snake venom - what is the poison of different snakes. The most venomous sea snake

More than 5 million people around the world are bitten by reptiles every year, but only in half of the cases does snake venom have toxic effect on the victims, and death occurs in 90 thousand people. It turns out that not all people are equally sensitive to a unique substance that is released from the parotid glands of the animal. For a long time, treatment with snake venom was not recognized and was considered experimental. After a long study of the composition, which has useful features, snake venom found its use in medicine only from the beginning of the 19th century.

To obtain the required amount of a toxic substance, special farms were created for growing and keeping reptiles, where poison is collected from a snake in small quantities (mg) no more than once a month: viper - 30, gyurza - 300, cobra - 194, efa - 50 and muzzle - 137. And only in the composition of medicines or ready-made solutions does snake venom show its amazing medicinal properties:

  • rattlesnake venom and its hemotoxic effect is indispensable for increased blood clotting, blood clots and vascular occlusion. Due to this feature of the released toxic substance, heart diseases, circulatory disorders, and thromboembolism are treated with poison;
  • neurotoxic effect that cobra venom has. Affecting the central nervous system, reduces pain. Has a soothing relaxing effect;
  • the cytotoxic property of viper venom relieves severe inflammatory processes;
  • the myotoxic effect of African and Brazilian snake venom promotes resorption of hematomas. Effective remedy for injuries, bruises, fractures.

These characteristics are possessed only by preparations based on snake venom. In their pure natural form, all these properties are hazardous to health. By releasing venom, the snake can cause convulsions and paralysis, clouding of consciousness, loss of vision and hearing, blockage nerve impulses, stop breathing and heart in humans.

Benefits of snake venom

Complicated chemical composition, which is found in the venoms of most dangerous snakes, has been little studied. However, the available data are sufficient to use this poison in medicine in the form of drugs. The snake venom consists of substances necessary for every living organism.

Proteins and amino acids. Organically substances that are important for the normal course of metabolic and digestive processes, the cell cycle, and energy.

Fatty acid. At a low concentration in the human body, they help improve cerebral circulation and blood flow, prevent the development of visual and hearing defects, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Hydrolases. Enzymes that dissolve blood clots in thrombophlebitis, reduce hematomas, promote healing of injuries, cleanse the vessels of the heart. They are prescribed for people at risk of myocardial infarction. In inflammation or abscesses of the lung, hydrolases are able to remove excess liquid from the site of injury.

Proteases. They break down and remove antigens, bacteria, yeast, allergens and foreign substances from the body not only from the gastrointestinal tract, but also from the circulatory system.

Nucleases. They participate in the correction of the human genetic code, have an antibacterial and antiviral effect, activate the body's immune response.

Catalases and oxidases. important antioxidants. Responsible for the protective function of cells, participate in tissue respiration and biological process oxidation of hydrogen peroxide with the conservation of oxygen.

Microelements. They maintain the balance of acid and alkali, normalize the functioning of the reproductive system, promote the growth and development of a person, play an indispensable role in hematopoiesis and the synthesis of enzymes, hormones and vitamins.

Preparations based on snake venom

"Tobarpin". The basis of the drug is the substance batroxobin, a synthetic viper venom. It is prescribed for acute myocardial infarction in the first 72 hours after an attack, pulmonary embolism. The action of the drug is based on the dissolution of intravascular, venous and arterial thrombi. Intravenous administration of 10 units.

"Epilarktin". An effective anticonvulsant, vasodilator and analgesic drug. Rattlesnake venom, which is part of the drug, is used for epilepsy, vegetative dystonia, migraine. Intramuscular administration 1 time per day, 1 ml.

In modern homeopathy, the use of substances secreted by reptiles has been used for a long time. Among them, the poison of the surukuku snake is especially popular, the medicinal properties of which are aimed at treating cardiovascular diseases, disorders of the biliary system. It is prescribed for cirrhosis of the liver, hemorrhoids, menopausal manifestations in women and impotence in men, to get rid of drug and alcohol addiction. The poison of a dangerous snake is produced in the form of granules or capsules, the selection of the dosage of the drug is carried out individually.

"Nyaksin". Combined solution for intramuscular or subcutaneous injection has a strong analgesic effect, is not addictive. It is used for diseases of the peripheral nervous system, radiculitis of the lumbosacral region, neuritis. The venom of the Central Asian cobra eliminates pain after 3 injections. The beginning of treatment involves the introduction of 0.2 ml of the drug, followed by an increase in dosage to 2 ml.

Vipraksin. Aqueous solution and dry snake venom of the common viper. Activates the immune system, reduces inflammation and pain in arthritis, neuralgia, myositis. At the beginning of treatment, the recommended dose is 0.1 ml to 0.4 ml intramuscularly or subcutaneously.

Ointments based on snake venom

"Salvisar". An ointment containing viper venom is used for the complex treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, disorders of the peripheral nervous system, and reduction of pain syndromes. External use 1-2 teaspoons of the active substance per day.

"Viprosal V". The neurotropic component based on the secretion of the poisonous gyurza has an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and healing effect. External use for radiculitis, neuralgia and myalgia. In acute manifestations, the ointment is applied 1 time, with severe pain, the medicine is rubbed 2 times a day.

"Cobrotoxin". The therapeutic analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect is achieved through the external use of the components of the ointment: cobra venom and essential oils. Among the medical indications, you can most often find an appointment for fractures, bruises, gout, rheumatism, sciatica. The maximum local application is 2 grams of ointment per day.

Vipratox. The neurotoxic effect inherent in gyurza poisons irritates nerve receptors and reduces pain in rheumatism, lumbago, arthritis, myalgia, sciatica, sciatica. The amount of the applied substance per day should not exceed a dosage of 5-10 mg.

Contraindications for snake venom

Despite the fact that the specific secret that is secreted by the parotid glands of reptiles is used in medicine for the prevention and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the central nervous system, vascular and heart diseases, it has snake venom and its contraindications:

  1. kidney failure;
  2. cardiac pathologies;
  3. pregnancy;
  4. allergic reactions;
  5. disturbances in the work of the biliary system.

Severe toxic poisoning with snake venom in the presence of one of the above diseases in humans can provoke hemorrhage, cardiac arrest, pulmonary spasm, anaphylactic shock and death. In women during the period of bearing a child, spontaneous abortion may occur.

SNAKE POISON- a specific poisonous secret of special parotid glands of some species of snakes. The venom-secreting glands are connected by ducts to the canals of the two poisonous teeth of the upper jaw, from where the poison, when bitten by a snake, enters the body of the victim and causes poisoning (see Snakes).

Composition and properties

3. I. - viscous, colorless or yellowish liquid, odorless, with a bitter taste. Its reaction is slightly acidic, bd. weight 1.030-1.090. In liquid form, it is low-resistant, easily rots and loses toxicity and many enzymatic properties in 10-20 days. Well-dried poison (desiccator, freeze-drying or vacuum drying) loses more than 3/4 of its original weight and turns into a whitish-yellow crystal-like powder that retains the main properties of the poison for many years. Dry 3. i. dissolves in water, chloroform, saline solutions.

The main component 3. I. - proteins and peptides which share apprx. 80% of its dry weight. They are carriers of the main toxic and enzymatic properties of the poison. In addition, in 3. i. contains free amino acids, nucleotides, guanine derivatives, mucin, sugars, lipids, pigments, inorganic salts, as well as impurities from the snake's oral cavity (epithelial cells, bacteria).

Many poisons and their fractions have been studied in terms of their elemental and amino acid composition. It is established that toxicity and some fermental properties 3. I. give disulfide groups. Glutathione and other reducers of these groups reduce the toxicity of cobra, Russell's viper, and rattlesnake venoms by 80-90%, while almost completely eliminating their blood-clotting effect and the phospholipase activity of the last two poisons.

Biologically active principles of poisons are divided into three groups: 1) highly toxic thermostable polypeptides, or low molecular weight proteins, devoid of enzymatic properties; 2) large molecular protein-enzymes with high toxicity; 3) proteins with different enzymatic properties, but devoid of pronounced toxicity. Some of the enzymes of the last group can directly or indirectly potentiate the action of the main toxins 3. I.

Toxins of the first group, mainly related to neurotoxins, are found in the venoms of asps, sea snakes, some tropical rattlesnakes of South America, and in the venom of only one representative of vipers - the Palestinian viper. In most asps and sea snakes, these neurotoxins are represented by basic polypeptides with a mol. weighing approx. 6000-7000, consisting of 61 - 62 amino acid residues in one chain with four cross disulfide bonds, in snakes p. Bungarus - larger polypeptides (71 - 74 amino acid residues with five disulfide bonds), in the Palestinian viper - from 108 amino acid residues with three disulfide bonds. Crotoxin, the most powerful neurotoxin found in the venom of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus, is a complex compound of phospholipase A2 and a low molecular weight polypeptide, in combination with which phospholipase A2 acquires high neurotoxicity, losing to a large extent its enzymatic properties.

In the venoms of some asps (cobras, etc.), polypeptides with cardiotoxic and cytolytic effects were also found. They are close to the low-molecular toxin of tropical rattlesnakes - crotamine. The lethal effect of cobra venom cardiotoxin is 20 times weaker than that of neurotoxin.

In the venoms of most vipers and rattlesnakes, including all vipers and muzzles of the fauna of the USSR, low-molecular neuro- and cardiotoxins are not detected. The active principles of the venoms of these snakes are thermolabile and do not dialyze proteins through semi-permeable membranes with high protease activity, hemorrhagic, necrotizing and blood-clotting effects.

The composition of the poisons of a number of Australian asps and some tropical rattlesnakes is more complex; they contain both non-enzymatic neurotoxins and powerful proteases of hemorrhagic and hemocoagulative action.

On structure of the main toxins and on the leading manifestations of intoxication 3. I. can be divided into the following main groups: 1) with a predominance of neuro- and cardiotoxins (poisons of asps, sea snakes and some tropical rattlesnakes); 2) with a predominance of toxic proteases of hemorrhagic, necrotizing and blood-clotting action (toxins of vipers and most rattlesnakes); 3) poisons of mixed composition, containing both neurotoxins and powerful enzymes of hemorrhagic and blood-clotting action (toxins of a number of Australian asps and tropical rattlesnakes).

3. i. rich in enzymes, many of which are unique in their mechanism and strength of action. It contains proteases (exo- and endopeptidases, etc.), phospholipases, acetylcholinesterases, hyaluronidase, phosphatases (phosphomono- and diesterases, etc.), nucleotidase, oxidase, dehydrogenase, catalase and other enzymes. Related enzymes of different poisons differ in their mechanism of action. So, coagulases in some poisons convert fibrinogen into fibrin (thrombin-like effect), in others they activate factor X (thromboplastin-like effect), in the third, they turn prothrombin into thrombin, etc.

Snake venoms also contain inhibitors of enzyme systems, including inhibitors of tissue respiration (cytochrome oxidase system, succinate dehydrogenase, anaerobic glycolysis enzymes), anticoagulants, etc.

Poisoning statistics

According to incomplete data published by WHO, the annual number of people bitten by poisonous snakes, amounts to the globe OK. 500 thousand, of which 30-40 thousand (6-8%) die. More than 4/5 of all cases are registered in Asia, Africa and South America. Only in India the number of victims reaches 100 thousand people. in year.

As you move away from the tropics, the frequency and severity of bites from venomous snakes decrease. In the United States, the annual number of victims of snake bites varies, according to various authors, from 1.2 to 3.7 per 100,000 inhabitants. However, south and southwest. states on these indicators are approaching tropical countries: 10.8-

18.8 per 100,000. In Western Europe and in the middle zone of the USSR, the frequency of snake bites is lower than in the United States as a whole (no more than 0.7 per 100,000), in the south. Central Asia and in Transcaucasia it increases by 2-3 times. After implementation modern methods treatment mortality dropped sharply: in Brazil - from 27 to 8%, in the south of Japan - from 15 to 3%, in the USA - from 3.05 to 0.21%, etc. Bites of the most dangerous snakes of the subtropical fauna of the USSR (gyurza , sand efa) in the past gave approx. 8% of deaths, this figure is reduced to almost zero.

The degree of snake danger (ophidism) in each given locality is determined both by the number and species composition of poisonous snakes, and by socio-demographic factors (population density, degree of urbanization, lifestyle, clothing, etc.).

The degree of danger of bites from various poisonous snakes of the fauna of the USSR is characterized by the following data: in Tajikistan, when biting a gyurza, an extremely severe form of poisoning was observed in 8.1% of cases, severe - in 40.4%, moderate- in 27.4%, light - in 24.1%; in the Altai Territory, when bitten by a common viper, an extremely severe form of poisoning was not observed, severe - was observed in 6.4% of cases, moderate - in 36.2%, mild - in 57.4%.

Pathogenesis and clinic of poisoning

Pathogenesis and features a wedge, manifestations at poisoning 3. I. are determined primarily by the composition of the poison - the predominant content in it of neurotoxins, neuro-cardiotoxins or hemorrhagic coagulants. At the same time, with the bites of even the most dangerous snakes, the severity of intoxication varies. The dose and concentration of the released poison are of decisive importance. As well as secrets of other glands, 3. I. it is released either in a more or less concentrated form, and the amount of poison that enters the body of the victim can range from 0.4 to 65% of its total supply.

The severity of intoxication also depends on the age and state of health of the victim, on the location of the bite and on which tissue the poison has entered. Children, especially those under the age of 3 years, are much more difficult to tolerate poisoning than adults; bites to the head and torso are more dangerous than to the limbs, and if the poison enters directly into the blood vessel, it can cause the death of the victim in 5-10 minutes. after a bite. Intramuscular ingestion of viper and rattlesnake venom is almost twice as dangerous as subcutaneous, and intramuscular ingestion of asp venom has the same effect as subcutaneous.

Damage by poisons of predominantly neurotoxic action

Neurotoxic effect is caused by the poisons of asps and sea snakes (in the USSR - only the poison of the Central Asian cobra), Neurotoxic - by the poisons of some tropical rattlesnakes.

Poisons of asps and sea snakes block neuromuscular and interneuronal synapses, increase and then suppress the excitability of sensory and chemoreceptors, inhibit the cortex, subcortical and stem centers of c. n. from. Symptoms of defeat develop quickly since neuro-toxins 3. I. easily pass from the tissues into the bloodstream. However, these toxins are quickly eliminated from the body, appearing in large quantities in the urine after 13-20 minutes. after the introduction of poison, and in the next 16 hours. they are almost completely excreted.

Clinically, intoxication is manifested by a variety of sensory disorders, early development of impaired coordination of movements and peripheral paralysis, disorders of consciousness (stupor, coma), and in severe cases - increasing respiratory depression until it stops. Respiratory arrest is caused not only by paralysis of the respiratory muscles (curare-like effect), but also by depression of the respiratory center.

Circulatory disorders have a phase character. In the first 15-20 min. shock develops due to the intensive intake of histamine from the tissues into the bloodstream, and then the inhibitory effect of the poison on the vasomotor center. After 1-2 hours, blood pressure normalizes or even increases above the original. After 6-12 hours. the cardiotoxic effect of the poison may manifest itself: arrhythmia, atrioventricular blockade occurs, systolic and minute volumes of the heart progressively decrease, cardiogenic shock develops, sometimes pulmonary edema. In severe poisoning, the neurotoxic effect outpaces the cardiotoxic effect, and death occurs from respiratory paralysis.

The clinic of poisoning with the poison of the Central Asian cobra has been little studied due to the extreme rarity of bites by this snake. The available single observations show that it does not qualitatively differ from the picture of poisoning with the venom of the Indian cobra. Immediately after a snake bite, the victims experience acute pain in the affected area, spreading to the entire affected limb and to other parts of the body. A few minutes later, progressive general weakness, adynamia develop, then a feeling of numbness in the limbs, trunk and face, general stiffness. The coordination of movements is disturbed, and after 20-30 minutes. the patient loses the ability to move independently and stand on his feet. In the same period there are initial signs of a collapse (see). Then paresis progresses rapidly, and in severe cases - complete paralysis of the muscles of the limbs, trunk (see. Paralysis, paresis), as well as the face, tongue, larynx and organ of vision, which leads to aphasia (see), aphonia (see), diplopia (see), violation of swallowing. Disturbances of sensitivity are various: spilled painful sensations with skin hyperesthesia and paresthesias (see) are combined with feeling of stiffness, numbness, sharp easing of sensitivity and proprioception. Body temperature rises to 38-39 °, heart sounds are muffled, extrasystole is possible. The most formidable sign of poisoning is progressive depression and slowing of breathing. The threat of death from respiratory arrest is especially great in the first 2-10 hours. poisoning. Then, changes in the heart progress: deafness of tones, a decrease in the voltage of ECG teeth, extrasystole, atrioventricular blockade of I-II degree. Late cardiogenic shock and pulmonary edema are possible.

Local changes in the bite zone in case of damage by asps and sea snakes are negligible: two points of skin puncture by the snake's teeth and slight swelling around them are visible. Hyperemia, hemorrhages, hemorrhagic edema, blisters, lymphadenitis and vein thrombosis, inherent in poisoning with viper and rattlesnake venoms, never happen, which has a differential diagnostic value.

With a favorable course of intoxication, all nevrol, disorders regress after 2-5 days, but muscle weakness, numbness and aching pain in the limbs, deafness of heart sounds can persist for several weeks.

When poisoned with neurotoxic poisons of tropical rattlesnakes, respiratory paralysis does not develop, muscle paresis is combined with convulsive twitches, even convulsions; in a pathogeny and a wedge, a picture of intoxication the phenomena of heavy shock prevail.

Damage by poisons with a predominantly hemorrhagic and blood-clotting effect

These lesions are caused by the poisons of most vipers and rattlesnakes, including the toxins of all vipers and muzzles of the fauna of the USSR.

The pathogenesis of intoxication is dominated by local tissue destruction and edematous-hemorrhagic reaction to the poison, a systemic increase in vascular permeability, general hemorrhagic phenomena, disseminated intravascular coagulation with the subsequent development of hypo- or afibrinogenemia (thrombohemorrhagic syndrome), hypovolemia, shock, acute post-hemorrhagic anemia and dystrophic changes. in parenchymal organs.

Local changes in the zone of poison injection are pronounced, progress rapidly and largely determine the degree of general intoxication. Already in the first minutes after a snake bite, causing slight pain and a burning sensation, hyperemia, multiple hemorrhages and rapidly spreading hemorrhagic edema occur around the injection site of the poison. In severe forms of poisoning, edema and multiple spotted hemorrhages capture the entire affected limb and often spread far to the trunk. The limb acquires a purple-cyanotic color, blisters with serous-hemorrhagic contents may appear on the skin, lymphangitis, lymphadenitis and thrombosis of the outlet veins often occur. This reaction reaches its maximum development after 8-36 hours. after inoculation of the poison, when the volume of the affected limb increases sharply and abundant hemorrhagic impregnation of all soft tissues is determined. The exudate differs little from whole blood in terms of hematocrit, erythrocyte, hemoglobin and protein content. Thus, in the affected part of the body there is a huge decrease in the vascular bed of blood, which largely determines the development of hypovolemia, shock, hypoproteinemia and anemia. Wounds at the site of the bite sometimes bleed for a long time; later, ulcerations and necrosis may form here, the appearance of which is facilitated by improper provision of first aid to patients (application of a tourniquet, cauterization of the bite site, etc.).

The general picture of intoxication is dominated by shock phenomena: weakness, dizziness, pallor of the skin, nausea, vomiting, sometimes repeated fainting, a small and frequent pulse, and a decrease in blood pressure. In the early stages of intoxication (during the first hour), shock is associated mainly with the entry of histamine and other shockogenic substances into the bloodstream, as well as with disseminated intravascular coagulation (hemocoagulation shock), and later with abundant internal blood and plasma loss and hypovolemia (posthemorrhagic shock). ). Blood clotting in the first 30-90 minutes. rises sharply; deposition of fibrin in the capillaries and multiple microthromboses are noted. Then comes a long phase of hypocoagulation with severe hypofibrinogenemia and bleeding (nasal, gastrointestinal bleeding, hematuria, hemorrhages in organs, meninges, serous membranes, etc.). Thrombohemorrhagic syndrome lasts 1 - 3 days and is accompanied by signs of acute posthemorrhagic anemia (see).

In milder forms, general toxic symptoms are mild, local edematous-hemorrhagic reaction to the poison prevails. Damage to the body by hemorrhagic poisons is often complicated by the formation of necrotic ulcers in the bite area and gangrene of the affected limb, which delays the recovery time and can lead to disability in some of the victims. In uncomplicated cases, recovery occurs 4-8 days after the snakebite.

Treatment and prevention of poisoning

When providing first aid to victims, constriction of the affected limb with a tourniquet, cauterization of the bite site with gunpowder, to-tami, alkalis, boiling oil, etc., local injections of strong oxidizing agents (potassium permanganate, etc.) are categorically contraindicated. All these methods not only do not weaken or delay the action of the poison, but, on the contrary, significantly increase both general and local manifestations of intoxication, contribute to the occurrence of a number of serious complications (necrotic ulcers, gangrene, etc.).

First aid should begin with the immediate vigorous suction of the contents of the wounds, which allows to remove, as proven experimentally and clinically, from 28 to 46% of the total poison introduced into the body. If the wounds have dried up, they are first “opened” by pressing on the skin fold. Suction can be done by mouth (it does not cause intoxication if it gets on intact mucous membranes) or with the help of a rubber pear, breast pump, etc. It should be continued for 15-20 minutes. (in the first 6 minutes, approximately 3/4 of the entire extracted poison is removed), after which the wounds are treated with brilliant green, iodine or alcohol. When providing first aid, the affected limb is immobilized and the victim is provided with complete rest in a horizontal position, which reduces the outflow of lymph containing poison from the affected part of the body.

Plentiful drink (tea, coffee, broth) is useful. Alcohol in any form is contraindicated. Of the medicines, antihistamines, sedative drugs and those that affect vascular tone are prescribed.

Fast delivery of patients in the nearest to lay down is important. an institution where the earliest possible therapy with immune mono- and polyvalent antidote sera (PS) - antigyurza, antiefa, anticobra, etc. Treatment is carried out according to general rules serotherapy (see). In severe forms of poisoning, the dose of PS is from 80 to 130 ml or more, with moderate poisoning - 50-80 ml (M. N. Sultanov, 1963, etc.).

PS is administered intramuscularly, and only in case of extremely severe poisoning and late delivery of patients for health reasons is it possible to administer one dose of it intravenously. Homologous PSs are used, however, due to the similarity of the antigenic structure of snake venoms belonging to the same genus, cross-use of PSs is also acceptable. So, antigyrza serum can also be used for bites of other vipers of our fauna (except for poisoning of the sandy efa, belonging to another genus of the viper family). Treatment of PS can be complicated by allergic reactions - urticaria, Quincke's edema, serum encephalitis, severe anaphylactic shock (according to Campbell, 3% of cases), etc. Therefore, serotherapy, as a rule, should not be used for bites of common and steppe vipers, muzzles and other low-dangerous snakes , in which a quick cure can be achieved by pathogenetic and symptomatic means. Even with gyurza bites, the introduction of PS is not resorted to in all cases. PS concentrated and purified from ballast proteins are more effective and somewhat less dangerous than native ones. To prevent and mitigate the complications of serotherapy, it is recommended to administer intravenously glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone, prednisolone, etc.), antihistamines and blood transfusions simultaneously with PS.

Pathogenetic therapy depends on the type of poison that has entered the body. In case of damage by poisons of hemorrhagic-coagulative action, massive jet and then drip transfusions of blood and plasma, as well as blood substitutes, are most effective and quickly improve the condition of patients. In case of severe poisoning, 800-1500 ml of blood preparations are administered on the first day, and 200-600 ml each in the following days. With milder poisoning and in the treatment of children, the doses are reduced by 2-4 times. The rest of the treatment is carried out according to the general rules for the treatment of posthemorrhagic shock (see). Symptomatic therapy includes the appointment of anti-inflammatory drugs, tetracycline antibiotics, antihistamines, antianemic drugs.

Pathogenetic therapy of poisoning with neurotoxic poisons of asps (cobras) and other snakes consists in the use of anti-shock drugs along with PS and, in the event of respiratory paralysis, artificial respiration apparatus. The latter method is very important, because pharmacol, respiratory stimulants do not prevent or stop respiratory paralysis caused by cobra venom.

For snake bites of all types, prophylactic administration of tetanus toxoid is necessary.

Individual prevention of bites of poisonous snakes is provided by the protection of the limbs with high leather shoes and tight clothing, a thorough examination of the places of parking or lodging for the night. Usually snakes are not aggressive and bite only in self-defense, therefore, bites are mainly experienced by persons trying to catch or kill a snake, more often children and adolescents. In this regard, clarification of the dangers of chasing snakes is necessary; non-specialists, especially teenagers, should not be involved in catching poisonous snakes. Children's institutions (pioneer camps, etc.) should not be located in the centers of accumulation of snakes. Herpetologists can carry out the relocation of snakes from such places to reserves or nurseries.

The use of snake venom in medicine

3. i. used in medicine:

1) for the preparation of toxoids and immunization of animals in order to obtain anti-venom sera;

2) as independent to lay down. drugs;

3) as reagents for laboratory diagnostics of certain diseases;

4) for experimental modeling of a number of patol, syndromes (neurotoxic, hemorrhagic, disseminated blood coagulation and afibrinogenemia, etc.).

Apply 3. i. how to treat remedy started in the 16th century; as a therapeutic agent it was promoted by Paracelsus. wide practical use 3. i. started in the 20th century.

Rattlesnake venom has been used to treat epilepsy (with a problematic effect). Cobra venom and its neurotoxic fraction have a pronounced analgesic, antispastic and anticonvulsant effect; the cytolysins contained in it have a resolving effect on granulations and on the cells of some tumors. A weakened cobra venom neurotoxin has been shown to reduce the effects of the polio virus and probably other neuroviruses.

A number of preparations from viper venoms with thromboplastic action are used as a local hemostatic agent. For the prevention and treatment of thrombosis, the defibrinating component of the Malay muzzle venom is used - Arvin or Ancrod (Arvin, Ancrod). This is a glycoprotein that cleaves peptides A (but not B) from fibrinogen and causes incomplete polymerization of fibrin monomers without simultaneous activation of the fibrin-stabilizing factor. These loose fibrin monomer complexes rapidly undergo fibrinolysis to form a large number protein fragments with a pronounced anticoagulant effect. After a single intravenous injection of ancrod, a sharp hypo-coagulation occurs, which persists for approx. 24 hours, blood viscosity decreases.

Remains unexplored opportunity to lay down. the use of anticoagulants contained in the venoms of asps and some other snakes.

Venoms of snakes are widely used in laboratory diagnostic practice, Ch. arr. to recognize various bleeding disorders. Thus, samples with the venom of Russell's viper (stipven) or gyurza (lebetox) are used for the differential diagnosis of deficiency of factors VII and X (venoms contain an analog of factor VII), as well as for the quantitative determination of factor X and factor 3 of platelets. Prothrombin is determined using the venom of the Australian taipan snake or sand efa. Reptilase (a preparation from the venom of Brazilian rattlesnakes) is used to control blood clotting and the content of fibrinogen in it against the background of heparinization (its action, unlike thrombin, is not blocked by heparin), and together with the thrombin test, to differentiate various antithrombins, etc. d.

3. i. serves as a source of obtaining a number of enzymes used to study the structure and function of biol, systems, to obtain biologically active substances (bradykinin, etc.) and other purposes.

snake venom preparations

Vipraksin (Vipraxinum) - water solution dry venom of the common viper. It is prescribed as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent for neuralgia, myalgia, polyarthritis, myositis. Also used for the treatment of gynecol, inflammatory diseases, along with antibiotics.

The mechanism of action of vipraksin, as well as other drugs 3. Ya, has not been studied. It is assumed that along with the specific action of the main constituent parts poison cure. the effect is associated with reflex reactions (irritation of receptors), with the absorption of biogenic amines formed in tissues during the local action of the poison, with the effect on the body's immune responses, as well as with stimulation of the pituitary-adrenal system.

The drug is administered intradermally, subcutaneously or intramuscularly in the area of ​​greatest pain. Begin treatment with an injection of 0.2 ml. Usually, swelling appears at the injection site, significant pain is felt; chills, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting are also possible. After 3-4 days, when the general and local reactions disappear, the same dose is re-introduced (if the local reaction was pronounced) or increased to 0.3 ml. With absence side effects 10 injections are prescribed for a course of treatment with an interval of 3-4 days at the same dose, and if the drug is well tolerated, the dose can be increased to 0.4 ml and the interval between injections is reduced to 1 day. The maximum single dose is 1 ml. In one place, no more than 0.4 ml should be injected, with a larger single dose, the drug is injected into 2-3 places. To prevent the drug from losing activity, use a chilled syringe free of alcohol.

Usually vipraksin is well transferred, however, as well as on other preparations 3. I., individually increased reaction is possible.

Vipraksin is contraindicated in active tuberculosis, insufficiency of coronary and cerebral circulation, lesions of parenchymal organs and in febrile conditions.

Release form - 1 ml ampoules. Store in sealed ampoules in a cool dark place; list A.

Viperalgin (Viperalgin) - Lyophilized sterile sand viper venom containing neurotoxin, hyaluronidase. By action, indications and contraindications, it is close to vipraksin. Enter intradermally, subcutaneously or intramuscularly, starting with a dose of 0.1 ml, with a gradual increase in it (by 0.1 ml each time) until a noticeable local reaction appears. Produce several injections with an interval of at least 1 day. By the end of treatment, the dose of the drug is gradually reduced.

Release form - ampoules containing 0.1 mg of dry poison, ampoules with a solvent (1 ml of isotonic solution of sodium chloride), the drug is dissolved immediately before use. Stored as a drug of list A. Produced in Czechoslovakia.

Viprosal (Viprosalum) - an ointment containing viper poison (16 mouse units per 100 g of ointment), with the addition of camphor, salicylic acid, fir oil, petroleum jelly, glycerin, paraffin, emulsifier and water. Creamy mass of white or slightly yellow color, with the smell of camphor and fir oil.

Applied externally for neuralgia, lumbago, myositis, arthralgia as an anesthetic. Apply to painful places 5-10 g 1-2 times a day and rub dry. When applied, local allergic reactions are possible, disappearing after discontinuation of the drug.

Release form - tubes of 20, 30, 40 and 50 g. Store in a cool dry place.

Viprosal may contain, instead of viper venom poison, the amount of common viper venom corresponding in activity.

Vipratox (Vipratox) - liniment containing the venoms of various snakes (0.0001 g), methyl salicylate (6 g), camphor (3 g) and the basis for liniment (up to 100 g). Apply externally.

Indications and method of application are the same as for viprosal. Release form - tubes of 45 g. Produced in the GDR.

Bibliography: Barkagan 3. S. and Perfiliev P. P. Poisonous snakes and their poisons, Barnaul, 1967, bibliogr.; B er d y e-in and A. T. To the pathogenesis of intoxication with poisons of Central Asian snakes of gyurza and cobra, Ashgabat, 1972, bibliogr.; she, Snake venoms, their toxic effect and measures to provide assistance with snake bites, Ashgabat, 1974, bibliogr.; Valtseva I. A. Pathophysiological features of the action of venoms of snakes inhabiting the territory of the USSR, and some questions experimental therapy, M., 1969; Mashkovsky M. D. Medicines, part 2, p. 108, Moscow, 1977; With a x and b about in D. N., Sorokin V. M. and Yukelson L. I. Chemistry and biochemistry of snake venoms, Tashkent, 1972, bibliogr.; Poisonous animals of Central Asia and their poisons, ed. G. S. Sultanova, Tashkent, 1970; Venomous animals and their venoms, ed. by W. Biicherl a. E. F. Buckley, N. Y.-L., 1971.

3. S. Barkagan; V. A. Babichev (farm.).

Regardless of whether you like snakes or not, they exist in this world and their number is about 2600 species. They can be hated, idolized or respected. Snake venom - what is the poison of different snakes, we will tell today. The phrase itself ismy poison - terrifies many people ...

Snake venom - what kind of poison does different snakes have

And so, snakes belong to the scaly species and differ from all in the absence of limbs. At the same time, snakes are 100% predators, and the main method of their hunting is expectation, surprise and poison. The venom contains many toxins and enzymes.

The venom of the snake is located in the temporal lobe salivary glands. The ducts pass through sharp teeth that can change position.

The main types of poisonous snakes that pose a real threat to humans are viper, pit-headed and aspids.

There is a hemolytic poison that destroys red blood cells, which complicates blood clotting, and a neurotoxic poison that affects the nervous system, causing paralysis and sometimes hallucinations.

What is the poison of different snakes

The hemolytic snake venom, which affects the cardiovascular system, is inherent in the most poisonous vipers and pit vipers. Their teeth can be 4 cm long. When attacking the victim, the teeth turn forward and inject poison into the victim.

Among these species of snakes, the black mamba is known, a resident of African cities - she loves multiple bites with injection of poison. sand efa, from the genus Viper, one of the most poisonous snakes on the planet, moves sideways, drawing marvelous curved stripes on the sand.

The common viper leaves behind a very painful bite, but without a fatal outcome. Mulga is very generous with poison, squirting about 150 g of it at a time. The green rattlesnake is very famous among the inhabitants of coastal America, it is very aggressive and poisonous, it climbs trees well and disguises itself. Its bites are deadly, as the poison thins the blood.

Bushmaster, his bite is never expected, very often a meeting with him is fatal for a person. Taipan is very poisonous, its poison can cause vomiting, convulsions. If the bitten person is not given an antidote within a few minutes, a coma occurs.

The neurotoxic snake venom causes symptoms by the action of neurotoxins. First of all, it affects the respiratory system, leads to asphyxia, causes paralysis of muscles and limbs. The Indian cobra, famous for its dance, has a venom that affects the nervous system. The black echidna, a species of slate, the largest snake - emits a huge amount of poison, its bite is fatal to humans.

The degree of poisoning depends on the site of the bite. Tree snakes, hanging from trees, often bite the face and neck, which increases the risk of death. A strong toxic effect also increases when it enters a blood vessel.

At the same time, snake venom is very valuable to everyone. It is used by pharmaceutical companies in the manufacture of the same antidote for snakebite, an antidote.

Snake venom - this phrase causes not the most pleasant associations in a person. It is clear why, because such a waste product of snakes most often leads to a deterioration in health. But this is only in natural natural conditions if a snake has bitten a person. Fashionistas and people who care about their health know that snake venom is used in many areas of life. Cosmetology and medicine have long adopted this natural component in the creation of drugs that help people.

What are the properties of this substance? When does poison help us? And in what cases it is necessary to beware of it? Consider some options for the use of snake venom.

The composition of snake venom and its types

Snake venom is the product of specific venom glands (altered salivary glands) that are located behind the snake's eyes. Such a toxic substance enters the body of the victim through poisonous teeth. Few people think why this potent poisonous substance, even in trace amounts, has such a pronounced effect on the body. Snake venom primarily acts on vital organs and has no artificial analogues.

On the territory of Russia and Belarus there are more than 58 species of snakes, of which 11 are poisonous. The composition of snake venom depends on the type of these reptiles. Its main active ingredients are complex proteins and polypeptides (molecules containing more than 10 different amino acids), enzymes and trace elements.

According to their effect on the human body, the following types of snake venom are distinguished.

The composition of poisons depends on the presence and production of certain proteins and amino acids in the snake's body.

Such a specific effect of the secret of snake glands on the body formed the basis for the creation of many medicinal substances and cosmetic products. In small quantities and in skillful hands, toxic substances can serve to benefit a person.

How snake venom is used in medicine

In its pure form, the secret of snake glands is not used in medical practice. Most often, a dilute solution is used with the addition of glycerin, preservatives, stabilizers and other necessary components. The benefits of snake venom are due to its properties. First of all, it is an effect on the nervous system and the ability to cause a local skin reaction. The substance is used in the form of a solution for injection, creams, ointments. How can such funds help?

The healing properties of snake venom have the following characteristics.

Any remedy containing snake venom should only be prescribed by a specialist due to possible side effects. Do not use such a cream or ointment without consulting your doctor and without prior examination.

What is snake venom treatment called? Poison therapy or "snake therapy" has been used for a long time. Our ancestors believed that snakes could resurrect the dead, help with infertility. Their secret improves the immune system of our body, saves us from tuberculosis, promotes hair growth in case of complete baldness and relieves attacks of bronchial asthma. And, although many myths have long been in the past, scientists are still exploring the mechanisms of the influence of such substances on human organ systems.

The use of snake venom in cosmetology

Those who want to remain forever young are constantly experimenting with unusual means of saving youth. The secret of the special glands of reptiles has found its place of application in this area.
Snake venom is used in cosmetology to smooth wrinkles - it replaces Botox. That is, such a tool is not analog, but they are similar in the final effect. The poison at the site of application helps to smooth mimic wrinkles. These age-related changes in some cases are reduced by 40-50% with prolonged use of creams with a "poisonous" component.

Creams and cosmetic preparations are also used:

  • in massage parlors for the skin;
  • in the East, tinctures with snake venom are used as a medicine to increase potency;
  • it is added to shampoos to improve hair growth.

How does snake venom affect the human body?

What happens in the human body after a snake bite? Clinical picture depends on the type of reptile, bite site and other factors.

It seems to us who is stronger is the main one. Predators hone their reaction, grow sharp teeth, train powerful jaws; herbivores oppose them with a mighty mass and quick legs. But poison is firearms nature, "the great equalizer". With his appearance, the weak can overcome the strong, the slow will catch up with the fast. It is not for nothing that absolutely different animals, from jellyfish to mammals (poisonous, for example, some shrews), from spiders and insects to, of course, snakes, independently "thought of" the use of toxins.

There are poisonous animals in every class of animal (with the exception of birds), but each of them moved towards this in their own way. Jellyfish have developed specialized stinging cells containing a complex cnidocil organelle with a sharp spike. In bees and wasps, the accessory glands of the reproductive system are adapted for the production of poison. Snake venom is saliva, a thick aqueous solution containing a complex and deadly mixture of toxic proteins. It is so flawless that it already includes a certain amount of proteolytic enzymes that soften the tissues and begin to digest the victim: he will not go anywhere anyway.

LD50: 0.3 mg/kg (by subcutaneous injection). The African Dend-roaspis polylepis is one of the most frightening and dangerous venomous snakes in the world. Her pronounced territorial behavior makes her very aggressive towards any trespassers, and if the antidote is not quickly used, the probability of death from a bite will be 100%.

Common poisonous ancestor

Before the advent of methods for analyzing and comparing DNA, biologists had to rely on the not-too-reliable ground of comparative anatomy, embryology, and related disciplines. This traditional approach suggested that the common ancestor of all venomous snakes could have lived about 100 million years ago, when they had long since diverged from their scaly lizard cousins. Indeed, venomous lizards are extremely rare, while at least a quarter of snake species have venom. The severe consequences of the bites of many lizards have been associated with bacteria, including numerous pathogens that live in their oral cavity.

Recently, however, in cell culture experiments, it was found that the saliva of many lizards has a real toxicity and is able to suppress blood clotting, cause paralysis and other unpleasant effects. Separate protein components of snake venom have been found in 1,500 species of lizards, including the famous Komodo dragons. Adding to this the data of chemical and DNA analysis, scientists put forward a hypothesis about a much more ancient evolutionary origin poisons, attributing this significant moment to the common ancestor of snakes, iguanas and some other lizards, who lived about 170 million years ago and made special rearrangements of his genome.


LD50: 0.025 mg/kg (by subcutaneous injection). Oxyuranus microlepidotus - a resident of Central Australia - uses the most dangerous poison for humans, which includes toxins that act on the nervous system and muscles, liver, kidneys and blood vessels. For example, taikatoxin blocks the movement of calcium ions into the cells of the heart muscle, stopping their work.

Genes encoding proteins important for the functioning of various cells and tissues were duplicated and began to act in the salivary glands. Such duplications are not uncommon in nature - for example, the short-legged beagles, dachshunds and related breeds of dogs were the result of a doubling of the FGF4 signaling factor gene involved in the regulation of limb growth. However, in the "poisonous ancestor" random mutations and selection changed the functions of the original molecule - and the protein, peacefully serving as some kind of blood coagulation regulator, could turn into a lethal toxin, causing its uncontrolled coagulation. For example, phospholipase A2, a small and generally innocuous enzyme involved in lipid digestion, has become a real killer that indiscriminately destroys living cells by dissolving their membranes. And there can be dozens of such killers in snake venom: proteins account for up to 90% of its dry mass and almost 100% of the lethal effects.


LD50: 0.57 mg/kg (by subcutaneous injection). The venom contains neurotoxic and cardiotoxic components, causing paralysis and death from asphyxia or heart attack. The cobra Naja naja is one of the famous "Big Four" of venomous snakes in Asia, led by Russell's viper, the same "motley ribbon" from the story of Sherlock Holmes.

killer recipes

Snake venoms are the most complex of all natural poisons, and comparing them to chemical weapons would underestimate their excellence. Chlorine or mustard gas are simple molecules that work roughly and randomly; cobra or black mamba toxins act with deadly precision and efficiency. Each of them individually - and the overall recipe for their mixture - has been honed by millions of years of evolution and attack very specific targets in the victim's body. The key ones are the cells of the blood, nervous and cardiovascular systems.

Dendrotoxin 1, which is part of the mamba venom, is able to block large group voltage-sensitive potassium channels, disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses through neurons. A variety of α-neurotoxins, found in cobras and many other snakes, bind to acetylcholine receptors, completely blocking the work of synapses - primarily those that transmit commands from nerve cells to muscle cells - which ends in paralysis and death from asphyxiation. The fasciculins in rattlesnake venom deactivate acetylcholinesterase, which removes the extra neurotransmitter from the synaptic space, and the excess causes uncontrollable spasms and convulsions.


LD50: 6.45 mg/kg (by subcutaneous injection). Vipera berus in the world ranking of danger trails far behind the leaders. Its poison is not incredibly toxic, and several antidotes have been created against it. But every ordinary mushroom picker has a chance to get a bite, the consequences of which are extremely difficult in any case.

These are just a few of the snake venom toxins and their targets: others can cause kidney damage and heart muscle paralysis, destruction of the endothelium lining the vessels, and massive tissue necrosis. Vipers and many cobras have turned common clotting factors into killers. From a whole cascade of coordinated acting proteins that triggers the mechanism of thrombus formation in the event of an injury, one or another can “switch to dark side”and cause general thrombus formation right in the vessels. The sight is terrible: the body of the victim is no longer filled with thick blood, almost all of it turns into coagulated clots and watery plasma, which, due to the increase in pressure, causes the body to inflate like a balloon, and oozes from literally all openings - including tiny traces left by poisonous teeth.


Delivery means

The venom of the common ancestor of snakes and some lizards, which are sometimes combined into the Toxicofera group, apparently did not differ in such complexity and combined a rather limited number of mutated proteins. He also did not have special devices for effectively injecting toxic saliva into the body of the victim. That's why different groups these squamates went their separate ways, developing own funds and delivery mechanisms. By and large, this process covered all systems of the snake body, although its epicenter fell, of course, on the salivary glands, which became real factories for the synthesis of toxins. And on the teeth, which turned into sharp, poison-filled syringes.

It is believed that representatives of the vast and ubiquitous viper family can boast of the most advanced poisonous apparatus. Surrounding their large venom glands are powerful chewing and temporal muscles that can instantly squeeze out poison. Through the channels, it enters the large poisonous teeth, which in many species have become hollow and sharp, like needles. Immersed in a thick mucous base, these teeth automatically “unfold”, as soon as the snake opens its mouth wide, and with the effort of the muscles that close it, the poison is squeezed out under the skin of the victim.


Vipers have the most developed poisonous apparatus.

Some cobras act even more meanly - they spit poison at 1-2 m, while aiming at the eyes. But this skill is a rather late acquisition, and ordinary poisonous teeth with new lateral holes are adapted for spitting. In addition, the poison that has fallen on the cornea is not fatal and only causes severe irritation, allowing the snake to inflict a bite, the ability for which these species have not lost at all. The blinded victim is doomed unless he can oppose the poison with some antidote.

Antidote Race

Many snakes are forced to take the greatest care not to bite their own tail and die from their own poison. In fights between them, death from poisoning is a common thing, especially if reptiles have entered into a conflict. different types. But others have become insensitive to the action of their own toxins - as Indian cobra, spectacle snake, whose acetylcholine receptors are insensitive to the action of the main component of its poison, α-neurotoxin. Random mutations have endowed mongooses with such stability, as well as hedgehogs, pigs and honey badgers - relatives of martens who hunt poisonous snakes much more actively than the beloved Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.

But the most striking resistance to snake venom is shown by opossums, which are almost immune to even the action of botulinum toxin and ricin. Their main secret lies in the amazing LTNF molecule, a blood protein factor that neutralizes lethal toxins. Isolated and injected intraperitoneally into mice, it helped them survive experiments with lethal doses of venom from all four major families of venomous snakes—and even some toxins from other sources, including scorpion venom. The LTNF factor was recently discovered, and its mechanism of action is still unclear, but it is being actively studied - after all, theoretically, the blood of opossums can provide us with a uniquely effective antidote.


Many snake venom toxins affect individual proteins of neuromuscular synapses and their neurotransmitter acetylcholine. They can lead either to hypertrophied and uncontrolled excitation, or to a deep inhibition of the work of these compounds.

In the meantime, the antidote for each case has to be obtained separately, by administering non-lethal doses to animals - usually cows or horses - and isolating ready-made antibodies from their blood resulting from an immune response. With some patience and great courage, such antibodies can also be “brought up” in your own body: the legendary explorer, the founder of the Serpentarium in Miami, Bill Haast, injected himself with microdoses of poisons throughout his life. He not only successfully survived 172 bites, but also was a unique blood donor that saved dozens of lives of people bitten by snakes, for which there is no antidote.


Dear displeasure

Toxins are an incredibly effective tool, but not all-powerful. It is not for nothing that the vast majority of animals still adhere to other methods of defense and attack, which are not so expensive for the body. In fact, a study of rattlesnakes before and after venom was taken from them showed that the synthesis of proteins necessary to replenish the supply of lethal doses causes the entire body to strain and work in an enhanced mode for three days, increasing the metabolic rate by 11%. The same measurements were made for viper-like deadly snakes, extremely dangerous inhabitants Australia: They have to increase their metabolism by almost 70% to recover.

Synthesizing poison is not for the faint of heart, it requires an effort comparable to that of a marathon runner. But an even greater contribution requires evolution and cultivation. complex systems its delivery. In fact, this is a separate direction of development, to which poisonous species sacrifice a lot of resources. In some ways, it can be called an alternative to a complex and large brain: along with this voracious organ, chemical weapons are one of nature's most expensive and most effective finds.