The venom of this species is highly neurotoxic, related to that of cobras and coral snakes, and acts pre-synaptically. The best and only specific treatment is antivenom which may be available from foreign producers. In the absence of antivenom, at the first sign of neurological symptoms, the victim should be sedated, electively intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation and supported for as long as respiratory paralysis exists. On return of spontaneous effort the victim should be carefully observed and slowly and carefully weaned. In animal experiments subjects expired while still be injected intravenously and within 40 to 70 minutes when injected subcutaneously.
Most snakebites are subcutaneous.
Others of the genus Hydrophis are found in Arabian Gulf Waters Sea snake bites are rare and are endured primarily by fisherman when handling netted fish. Serious envenomations by sea snake bite is, however, extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Sea Snake antivenom is manufactured in Australia for species in their waters. Other Australian elapid antivenoms may also be useful in sea snake bite. In the absence of antivenom, victims demonstrating any neurologic symptoms should be sedated.