Is the dosage of snake antivenom weight-based for both adults and children?

The correct response is that the dosage of snake antivenom is not typically weight-based for both adults and children. In clinical practice, the administration of antivenom generally follows a fixed dosage protocol rather than being strictly adjusted by the patient's weight. This approach simplifies the treatment process in emergency situations where rapid intervention is vital for preventing severe complications from snake bites.

For adults, a standard dose is often established that suits most body weights, while for children, guidelines may recommend a different protocol that still emphasizes fixed dosing or specific age ranges without always relying on weight measurements. This is important because the efficacy and safety of antivenom can depend on factors beyond just weight, and logistical considerations in emergency care often dictate a more uniform approach to dosing.

While weight-based dosing can be more precise in some medical situations, the practice of administering snake antivenom generally prioritizes immediate and effective treatment, which is why it's not categorically based on weight for all patients.