Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Where can a hobbiest obtain Saimr polyvalent? How much is it?

Unfotunately, obtaining antivenom is quite a bit of paper work and jumping through hoops. Here is a (loose) guide to how it is done. Others may wish to jump in and fill it in better as I'm really experienced in this field. This information may be outdated as well...

You need to apply for a Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) for a BB-IND number. The foreign AV manufacturer should include this number on all of their shipping labels. Then you need a 1572 form (Statement of Investigator). This is needed when applying for the BB-IND number. (I think more info on this can be found at Aphis.usda.org).

Notify CBER of the intention to import antivenom. Apply to US Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for a permit to import antivenom. When this is approved, send these labels to the foreign antivenom manufacturer.

Clear all AV through customs.

Submit annual report to CBER stating that no AV was used, or what AV was used and an incident report. Anytime a foreign AV is used a complete case report should be sent to CBER.

Here is the website for the manufacturer for SAIMR polyvalent.

Here is more information.

Lots of deadly venomous keepers here. Do the majority keep antivenom on hand, or are you just reeeeeeeaaallll careful?

I keep my own AV on-site, w/ emergency bite protcols clipped to the labeled AV fridge.It is too unsafe to keep exotic venomous without having your own AV in my opinion. You want to see a real chinese fire drill with your life at stake in the middle of it? Show up to a US hospital telling them you need fast help, that you've been bitten by a cobra or mamba...