The Venomous High: A Systematic Review of Published Cases on Deliberate Snake Envenomation for Recreational Purposes

This study investigates the phenomenon of deliberate snake envenomation for recreational purposes, a practice that appears to be an underreported and potentially growing issue. We conducted a systematic review of the literature, including original papers, case reports, case series, and letters to the editor on PubMed and Scopus databases using the search terms (((Addiction) OR (Recreational Use)) OR (Deliberate Envenomation)) AND (Snake)). Investigators systematically evaluated all cases, and information was extracted using a structured proforma. A total of 14 reports from 10 articles were reviewed. All patients were adult males (age = 29.5 ± 10.13 years) from India, with the majority having a history of substance use disorder. Envenomation was typically sought for psychoactive effects, including stress relief, inducing euphoria, and enhanced sleep. Patients claimed to use cobras and rat snakes, though species were usually uncertain. Premorbid personality traits such as disinhibition, high impulsivity, and sensation-seeking were common among the patients. The practice was prevalent across different socioeconomic strata, facilitated by commercial sources and social networks. Less is known about the actual prevalence, yet results establish recreational snake envenomation as a covert social health issue. Future focused research is needed to establish epidemiology, and consequently the prevention and management of the practice.

Cite this article as: Godara, K., Jayant Rajguru, A., Phakey, N., & Kumar, A. (2025). The venomous high: A systematic review of published cases on deliberate snake envenomation for recreational purposes. Addicta: The Turkish Journal on Addictions, 12(1), 71-80.