Wasp venom extracts

How it works

Repeated controlled administration of increasing venom doses induces immunological tolerance, shifting the immune response away from IgE-mediated hypersensitivity towards protective regulatory and IgG-mediated responses.

Prescribing in practice

• Administration carries a risk of anaphylaxis and must take place only where resuscitation facilities and trained staff are immediately available, with a period of post-dose observation.
• Treatment should be initiated and supervised by a specialist in allergy following confirmation of venom-specific sensitisation.
• Concurrent beta-blocker or ACE inhibitor therapy may complicate the treatment or management of any reaction and should be reviewed before starting.

Monitoring

Each dose requires close observation for local and systemic allergic reactions during and for a defined period after administration.

Counselling the patient

• You will need to remain under observation after each injection in case of an allergic reaction.
• Continue to carry any prescribed adrenaline auto-injector and avoidance measures as advised.

Evidence & guidelines

Venom immunotherapy is an established specialist treatment shown to reduce the risk of systemic reactions to subsequent stings.