In 2025, bites from venomous snakes remain a critical global health concern, capable of causing severe paralysis that impedes breathing, life-threatening bleeding disorders, irreversible kidney failure, and extensive tissue damage leading to permanent disability or limb amputation. Immediate medical intervention is essential.

As of 2025, snake venoms are categorized into three primary types:

1. Neurotoxic Venom: Affects the nervous system, causing paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death. Commonly found in cobras and coral snakes.

2. Hemotoxic Venom: Targets blood cells and vessels, leading to tissue damage, internal bleeding, and organ failure. Typical of vipers and pit vipers.

3. Cytotoxic Venom: Destroys cells and tissues, resulting in severe swelling, necrosis, and potential limb amputation. Often associated with certain species of rattlesnakes and adders.

As of 2025, common effects of spider venom include localized pain, tissue necrosis, muscle cramps, and systemic reactions such as nausea, sweating, and, in rare cases, cardiorespiratory issues. Spider venoms affecting humans are primarily categorized into two types: neurotoxic (impacting the nervous system) and cytotoxic/necrotic (causing cell and tissue damage). Understanding these effects is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

As of 2025, the Brazilian wandering spiders, Phoneutria fera and Phoneutria nigriventer, remain among the most venomous spiders globally. While hundreds of bites are reported each year, the availability of a potent antivenom has significantly reduced fatalities, making deaths rare in most cases.

As of 2025, scorpion venom neurotoxins trigger a massive release of neurotransmitters, often causing symptoms like sweating, nausea, vomiting, excessive salivation, and restlessness. In severe cases, they can lead to arrhythmia, unconsciousness, heart failure, and potentially death if left untreated.

For over a century, antivenoms have remained the cornerstone of primary treatment for snakebites. These life-saving treatments enhance the body's immune response to neutralize venom toxins. Antivenoms are produced by immunizing donor animals, such as horses or sheep, with controlled doses of snake venom, creating antibodies that are then purified for medical use.