Drug Notes

Botulism antitoxin (By injection)

Botulism Equine Heptavalent Antitoxin (ABCDEFG) (BOT-ue-lizm EE-kwyne hep-ta-VAY-lent an-ti-TOX-in ABCDEFG)

Treats botulism.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have asthma, hay fever, seasonal allergies, or diabetes. Tell your doctor if you had an allergic reaction to horses or horse blood products.
• This medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction called serum sickness. Seek care immediately if you develop muscle or joint pain, fever, rash, or swollen glands 1 to 3 weeks after treatment.
• This medicine contains maltose, which can interfere with some blood glucose monitoring systems. Talk to your doctor if you test your blood glucose level or use insulin.
• This medicine is made from horse plasma. It is possible that horse blood products may spread viruses to people who receive them. The risk is low, but talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms that concern you.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
• Rash, muscle or joint pain, or swollen lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache, fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017