By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica, a nation renowned for its biodiversity, faces the challenge of venomous snakebites, recording over 600 cases in 2024. Fortunately, the country has a powerful weapon against these potentially deadly encounters: the Instituto Clodomiro Picado (ICP-UCR) at the University of Costa Rica. Since 1970, this institution has been producing the antivenom that saves lives and limbs.
Dr. Yamileth Angulo, director of the ICP-UCR, explained the process of creating this life-saving serum. The antivenom is a concentrated blend of antibodies extracted from the plasma of horses. Horses are chosen for their manageable nature and large blood volume, ensuring a substantial supply of plasma without harming the animals.
To understand the legal and business landscape surrounding antivenom production and distribution in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The accessibility and affordability of antivenom in Costa Rica are critical public health concerns. While the Instituto Clodomiro Picado plays a vital role in production, ensuring a streamlined regulatory framework for both domestic distribution and international export is crucial. This involves not only clear guidelines for quality control and pricing but also addressing potential liability issues related to adverse reactions and ensuring equitable access for all who need this life-saving treatment.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the multifaceted challenge of antivenom accessibility, emphasizing the crucial balance between production, regulation, and equitable distribution. Indeed, navigating these complexities is paramount to ensuring this life-saving treatment reaches everyone who needs it, both within Costa Rica and beyond. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable legal and public health perspective on this critical issue.
We purify antibodies. These are proteins that neutralize the toxins present in snake venom. Initially, we take the horses and gradually inject small amounts of venom, much like administering a vaccine.
Dr. Yamileth Angulo, Director of ICP-UCR
Once the horses develop sufficient antibodies, the plasma is collected and processed to isolate the vital proteins. When a person is bitten by a venomous snake, the venom rapidly enters the bloodstream. The injected antivenom then works swiftly to neutralize the toxins, halting their damaging effects.
Time is of the essence in treating snakebites. Dr. Angulo stressed the importance of prompt medical attention, stating that the faster a victim receives antivenom, the greater the likelihood of avoiding severe consequences, including amputation or even death.
The quicker the person is treated, the more likely they are to avoid both death and lasting effects. Some people lose limbs; they have to be amputated when they arrive late at the hospital. There is also the psychological impact, which is much harder to treat.
Dr. Yamileth Angulo, Director of ICP-UCR
The ICP-UCR produces antivenom in both liquid and powdered (lyophilized) forms. While Costa Rican hospitals typically use the liquid version, the powdered form is ideal for export to countries like Colombia and Peru, where transportation through challenging terrain necessitates a stable product. The powdered antivenom eliminates the need for strict refrigeration during transport, making it invaluable in remote areas.
The Costa Rican Red Cross has also gained access to this powdered antivenom for use in hard-to-reach areas. This will significantly improve their ability to treat snakebite victims in remote locations, where preserving the cold chain for liquid antivenom is often impossible. This year alone, 46 individuals have required critical care following snakebites, highlighting the continued need for accessible and effective treatment.
This innovative approach to antivenom production and distribution underscores the ICP-UCR’s commitment to public health, not only within Costa Rica but also internationally. The ability to transport this life-saving treatment to remote and challenging environments is a crucial advancement in the fight against snakebites.
For further information, visit [icp.ucr.ac.cr]
About Instituto Clodomiro Picado (ICP-UCR):
The Instituto Clodomiro Picado, part of the University of Costa Rica, is a research and production facility dedicated to developing and manufacturing antivenoms. Their work is crucial in combating the effects of venomous snakebites, both within Costa Rica and internationally. They are pioneers in antivenom research and play a vital role in improving global health outcomes.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS)
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), also known as the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, is the principal institution responsible for healthcare in Costa Rica. It manages hospitals and clinics throughout the country and plays a vital role in providing healthcare services to the population.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Costa Rican Red Cross
About Costa Rican Red Cross:
The Costa Rican Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical services, disaster relief, and community health programs. They are often the first responders in emergencies and play a vital role in providing care in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest standards of integrity in every facet of its practice. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering individuals and communities, the firm champions accessible legal knowledge through innovative outreach programs. From its seasoned expertise serving clients across diverse industries to its pioneering approach to legal challenges, Bufete de Costa Rica continuously strives to create a more just and informed society.
