What is, and what do we mean by snake venom toxicity?  Toxicity is traditionally determined by how much venom it takes to kill a test animal. It is tested via the "Lethal Dose for 50%” (LD50) method - how much venom it takes to kill 50% of the test animals (usually mice).

When discussing the LD50, we must also consider the route of injection:

Subcutaneous

Under the skin. These bites are the most applicable to actual snakebites.

Intramuscular

Into the muscle. Very large specimens of Gaboon Vipers, Puff Adders, Rhino Vipers, Rattlesnakes, Bushmasters, and South American Lanceheads (also called Fer-de-lances) are about the only snakes capable of delivering this type of bite.

Intravenous

In a vein. These bites are extremely rare and very, very unfortunate, as many of those are rapidly fatal.

Intraperitoneal

Directly into the body cavity. These bites are even rarer for humans.

The dangerous effect of snake venom on humans is well known, but there are also many medicinal uses of snake venom, this specialized saliva has been used in medical situations across the globe:

Excessive bleeding

A blood-clotting protein in Taipan venom has been found to stop excessive bleeding during surgery or after major trauma.

Stroke

Components of Malayan Pit Viper venom has shown potential for breaking blood clots and treating stroke victims.

Neurological diseases

Enzymes from cobra venom may be instrumental to finding cures for Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Cancer (various types)

An enzyme derived from copperhead venom could be used for treatment for breast cancer.

Aging

Yes, some are even used in a commercial wrinkle cream!