Changes in Permeability of the Skin Capillaries of Rats by Echis Carinatus (Saw-Scaled Viper) Venom, and Its Modification by Promethazine, LSD25 and Reserpine Pretreatment

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Abstract
Haemorrhages in various viscera due to the capillary endothelial damage with resultant shock form a major component of the symptomatology in viperine snake poisoning. The present work has demonstrated that the E. carinatus (saw-scale viper) venom is approximately as potent as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and thrice as potent as histamine in increasing the capillary permeability in the rat. The increased capillary permeability induced by the venom is largely mediated through a release of histamine, and to a lesser extent by the release of 5-HT. The administration of antihistaminic and the antiserotonin drugs, together with the antivenene, is suggested in the management of the viperine snake poisoning.