UKC Maribor provides antivenin stock and Croatia resumes its own production of snake antitoxin

The UKC Maribor has secured a stockpile of antidote against snake venom, while Croatia is nearing completion of its own domestic production facility for horse-derived antitoxin. According to reports from local media, Slovenia currently lacks a domestic production capacity for antivenom and relies on imports from abroad. In contrast, Croatia's Immunological Institute (IMZ) is finalizing the construction of a new plant near Zagreb, which will enable the country to resume producing horse-derived antitoxin after several years. The new facility in Rovinj, Croatia, is set to become operational in late 2026, with the first domestically produced antitoxin potentially available by early 2027. The project, valued at approximately 4.8 million euros, represents a significant investment in public health infrastructure. It aims to reduce reliance on imported medical supplies and enhance emergency response capabilities during venomous bites. The process of producing antitoxin involves multiple complex stages. As explained by Dr. Vedran Čardžić, director of the Immunological Institute, the procedure begins with collecting venom from snakes. This venom is then used to immunize horses, whose immune systems generate antibodies against the toxin. Blood is drawn from these animals, and specific antibodies are isolated through a series of purification steps. These purified antibodies are then formulated into a medical product capable of neutralizing the effects of venom in humans. The decision to establish this facility follows years of planning and funding efforts. Croatian officials have emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in critical healthcare products, particularly in light of global supply chain disruptions and the increasing incidence of snakebites in rural areas. The facility is designed to meet international standards and will support both national and regional medical services. In Slovenia, the University Clinical Center Maribor has taken proactive measures to ensure a steady supply of antivenom. Local authorities confirmed that the center maintains sufficient reserves to cover urgent cases until alternative solutions are available. While Slovenia continues to depend on external suppliers, the situation highlights the growing need for regional collaboration in pharmaceutical production. Experts suggest that the successful operation of Croatia’s new facility could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges. The ability to produce life-saving treatments locally not only improves patient outcomes but also strengthens national resilience in times of crisis. Both Slovenia and Croatia have expressed interest in further cooperation, including joint research initiatives aimed at advancing antivenom technology and distribution networks. As the deadline for the Croatia project approaches, all eyes remain on the progress of the new facility. With the potential for a fully functional antitoxin production line by 2027, the region is poised to take a meaningful step toward greater autonomy in medical care.