ANTIVENOM Meaning and
Definition
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Antivenom, also known as antivenin or antivenene, is a specialized medication used to counteract the effects of venomous bites or stings from various organisms. It is a medical product derived from the blood or serum of animals that have been immunized with specific venoms. The purpose of antivenom is to neutralize the toxic components present in venom and prevent or minimize the ensuing harm caused to the victim.
When venom is introduced into the body through a bite or sting, it can trigger a range of toxic reactions, such as tissue damage, paralysis, organ failure, or even death. Antivenom is tailored to combat specific venoms, depending on the type of organism that inflicts the bite or sting. The production of antivenom involves injecting a small, non-lethal dose of venom into a suitable animal, usually a horse or a sheep. Over time, the animal's immune system generates antibodies that are collected, purified, and processed to create antivenom.
The administration of antivenom involves injecting it into the victim's body intravenously. Once introduced, the antibodies in the antivenom bind to the venom's toxins, rendering them harmless by either neutralizing their effects or promoting their elimination from the body. The effectiveness of antivenom largely depends on its specificity to the venom being treated and the promptness of its administration after envenomation.
Antivenom is vital in the treatment of venomous snakebites, scorpion stings, spider bites, and bites from other venomous creatures. It acts as a crucial tool in minimizing the severity of envenomation and improving the chances of survival.
Common Misspellings for ANTIVENOM
Etymology of ANTIVENOM
The word "antivenom" is composed of two elements: "anti-" and "venom".
The prefix "anti-" comes from the Greek word "antí" meaning "against" or "opposite". It indicates opposition, counteraction, or negation.
The term "venom" originates from the Latin word "venenum", which referred to any toxic substance. It later specifically referred to the poisonous secretion of animals such as snakes, spiders, or scorpions.
Therefore, the word "antivenom" literally means "against venom" or a substance used to counteract the effects of venom.
Similar spelling words for ANTIVENOM
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