Blood Thinner Drug: A Potential Game-Changer for Cobra Bite Treatment

Researchers from the University of Sydney have discovered that the common blood thinner drug, heparin, could serve as a cost-effective antidote for snakebites. Using CRISPR technology, they identified ways to block cobra venom. After successful trials on human cells and mice, heparin showed promise in preventing venom-induced necrosis.

Researchers at the University of Sydney suggest that heparin, a widely-used blood thinner, could be a cost-effective antidote to snakebites.

According to Greg Neely, a corresponding author, heparin could significantly reduce necrosis from cobra bites and potentially improve survival rates by slowing venoms.

Existing antivenoms are not effective against necrosis, which can lead to severe tissue damage and even amputation.

The research team used CRISPR gene-editing technology to determine how cobra venom can be blocked. Trials in human cells and mice showed that heparin could stop necrosis caused by cobra bites.

Heparin acts as a 'decoy' antidote, binding the toxins and preventing tissue damage.

Lead author Tian Du noted that heparin is inexpensive and listed as an essential medicine by the World Health Organisation (WHO), making it widely available.

WHO reports suggest that about 4.5-5.4 million people globally are bitten by snakes annually, with up to 138,000 deaths.

In India, snakebites result in approximately 50,000 deaths annually. Current treatments in the country include the polyvalent anti-snake venom (ASV).

(With inputs from agencies.)