What are the contra-indications to bee venom?
Ø Absolute (you must not use bee venom if you have one of the following)
o Bee venom allergy
o Cardiac insufficiency
o Kidney insufficiency
o Pulmonary insufficiency
o Infections, local and systemic
o Feverish Diseases
o Purulent infections
o Pregnancy
o Unwillingness
Ø Relative (bee venom can be used, but with great care)
o Diabetes (insulin dependent)
o Digestive ulcers
o Liver cirrhosis
o Use of beta-blockers (Epinephrine may not be efficient in case of anaphylactic reaction)
o Kidney insufficiency (glomerulo-nephritis, nephritis, polycystic kidneys, albuminuria)
o Lung diseases (tuberculosis and advanced lung insufficiency)
o Severe psychiatric conditions (psychosis, depression, anxiety)
o Immediately before and after a meal
o Nursing- during breast feeding
Children under 12 years old