What treatment is used to reduce severity in botulism?

• A. Intravenous human-derived botulism immune globulin given ASAP
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Supportive care only
• D. Vaccination

Answer: (C)

Botulism cause severe weakness from a toxin that blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, so the key to reducing illness severity is to neutralize that circulating toxin as early as possible. Administering antitoxin intravenously, such as human-derived botulism immune globulin when indicated, binds the toxin and stops further progression of paralysis. This is why antitoxin therapy is prioritized and can shorten recovery, especially when given promptly. Antibiotics don’t address the toxin itself and aren’t used for treating the toxin-mediated paralysis; vaccination isn’t a treatment for an active case. Supportive care, including airway and respiratory support, is essential, but the antitoxin is what directly reduces severity by neutralizing the toxin.