In order to further study the role of SVMPs in the
pathophysiology induced by B. asper venom, and the
potential role of MMP inhibitors in the treatment of
snakebites, this study describes the ability of batimastat to
inhibit the most relevant systemic effects induced by this
venom. Results evidence that SVMPs play a key role in the
lethal, coagulant, defibrinogenating and hemorrhagic
effects of B. asper venom, confirming the potential of
metalloproteinase inhibitors in the therapy of snakebite
envenomations.