Abstract
The crude venom from Cerastes cerastes (Egyptian sand viper) produced symptoms of reproductive toxicity when injected into pregnant rats at a critical period of gestation. Foetal resorptions were observed in all rats that had received venom. Skeletal and visceral deformities as well as lower birth weights were also observed in some foetuses treated with venom alone. Antivenin and indomethacin injected together with venom for eight days effectively prevented foetal resorptions. All foetuses born to rats that were injected with venom together with either antivenin or indomethacin showed no evidence of visceral, skeletal, or brain defects. The mechanism of the toxic action of the venom may result from a direct action on the foetus or indirectly through an effect on maternal circulation.