Treatment for red-back spider bite
Note: Do not use a pressure bandage for red-back spider bite.
Treatment for suspected red-back spider bite is symptomatic focusing on adequate analgesia. First aid for red-back spider bite includes local application of an ice pack or heat pack for symptomatic relief. A pressure bandage should not be used as it can worsen the pain. Ensure the patient’s tetanus immunisation status is up to date.
Many Australian hospitals and medical centres no longer keep red-back spider antivenom, and most clinical toxicologists no longer recommend its use. A 2014 study1 showed the benefits of red-back spider antivenom are minimal and the antivenom can cause adverse effects (eg mild hypersensitivity reactions, serum sickness).