New antivenom invented for black widow spider bites

Scientists have invented a new antivenom for European black widow spider bites that uses human antibodies to mitigate the effects of the arachnid’s painful toxins.

- EMILY COOKE

The new treatment could be superior to existing antidotes, but it will need much more testing before it’s available to patients. When European black widows bite, they inject into their victims a powerful toxin called alphalatrotoxin. Alpha-latrotoxin attacks the nervous system and can trigger a condition called latrodectism, with symptoms such as severe pain, headaches and nausea. If left untreated, symptoms can last for several days, but the condition is rarely fatal.