Neurotoxins block the transmission between nerves and muscles leading to weakness and eventually paralysis of all muscles.

Myotoxins cause damage to muscles both locally at the site of the bite and throughout the body.

Hemolytic toxins damage the red blood cells (hemolysis) which can result in the passing of red or black urine.

Hemotoxins damage the lining of blood vessels (vascular damage) resulting in bleeding.

Cytotoxins destroy tissue cells, red, and white blood cells.

Coagulants cause clots to form in blood vessel throughout the body. Eventually this leads to an inability to clot (coagulopathy) as the supply of clotting factors becomes exhausted.

Snakes such as rattlesnakes and water moccasins have venoms which produce severe local reaction as well as coagulopathy, hemolysis and vascular damage, but have little neurotoxic effect. Initial swelling and pain occurs over the bite area with the fangs wounds often apparent. More severe signs of bleeding and shock can follow within a few hours.

The coral snake, Australian brown snake, tiger snake, taipan, and death adder venoms are predominately neurotoxic. In early stages the animal may look incoordinated, with twitching, excessive salivation. Pupils will fluctuate in size before becoming fully dilated and unresponsive to light. More severe cases progress to flaccid paralysis (collapsed and floppy). Death usually results from paralysis of the respiratory muscles causing inability to breath.

Antivenom (antidote) is the main treatment for all moderate and severe cases. Other supportive measures include intravenous fluids (drip) corticosteroids and antibiotics.