Are Centipedes Poisonous?
Centipedes are not poisonous to humans in the sense of being toxic if touched or ingested, but they are venomous—meaning they inject venom through their fangs (called forcipules) to subdue prey. The distinction is important:
Venomous: Injects toxins (like centipedes, spiders, or snakes).
Poisonous: Transfers toxins through touch or ingestion (like certain frogs or plants).
Centipede venom is designed to paralyze small insects, spiders, and other prey. For humans, most species cause only minor effects if they bite, such as localized pain, redness, and swelling similar to a bee sting. However, bites from larger centipedes, such as the Giant Desert Centipede or Scolopendra subspinipes, can be quite painful and occasionally trigger stronger reactions like blistering, numbness, or mild fever. Severe allergic responses are rare but possible, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Centipede Venom
Centipede venom is a complex biochemical cocktail designed to immobilize and digest prey quickly. It’s injected through a pair of modified front legs called forcipules, which function like venomous fangs. While the exact composition varies by species, centipede venom typically contains a potent mix of neurotoxins, enzymes, and proteins that work together to paralyze small animals and begin breaking down their tissues. Here are the main components and their effects:
Neurotoxins: These toxins interfere with the nervous system of the prey by disrupting the normal flow of nerve signals. They cause paralysis, which prevents escape and makes the prey easier to consume. In humans, neurotoxins can cause intense pain, tingling, or temporary numbness around the bite site.
Cytolytic and Proteolytic Enzymes: These enzymes break down cell membranes and proteins in tissues, essentially pre-digesting the prey from within. This contributes to the burning pain and swelling in human bites, as these enzymes damage local tissues and trigger inflammation.
Cardiotoxins and Histamine-Releasing Compounds: Some centipede venoms contain compounds that can affect the cardiovascular system or trigger histamine release, leading to redness, itching, and localized swelling.
Antimicrobial Peptides: Interestingly, centipede venom also includes substances that help prevent bacterial infection in the centipede’s prey—these peptides have been studied for potential medical applications in humans.
The potency of the venom depends on the centipede’s size and species. Large tropical centipedes (genus Scolopendra) possess stronger venom capable of causing severe pain and more noticeable systemic symptoms such as fever, nausea, or dizziness. In contrast, smaller house centipedes (like the Scutigera coleoptrata) deliver only a mild sting that’s harmless to humans.
Centipede venom is an efficient predatory weapon—highly specialized for paralyzing and digesting prey, but rarely dangerous to humans beyond short-term pain and inflammation.
Centipede Poisoning
If you’re bitten or envenomated by a centipede, the good news is that most bites are not dangerous and can be managed at home with proper first aid. However, because the venom contains powerful enzymes and neurotoxins, it can cause intense pain and swelling, especially from larger species:
Stay Calm and Move Away from the Centipede
Centipedes usually bite only in self-defense. Once you’re clear of it, avoid further contact. Remaining calm helps slow the spread of venom through your bloodstream.
Clean the Wound Thoroughly
Wash the bite area with soap and warm water to remove any venom residue and prevent infection. This is one of the most important steps, as centipede bites can break the skin and introduce bacteria.
Control Pain and Swelling
Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) to the bite for 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Elevate the affected limb if possible to minimize inflammation.
Avoid heat, as it can increase swelling and circulation of venom.
Manage Pain and Discomfort
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with pain. An oral antihistamine (like Benadryl or cetirizine) may ease itching or mild allergic reactions.
Topical treatments such as hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can also soothe irritation.
Monitor for Signs of Complications
Most bites heal within a few days, but seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:
Severe or worsening pain
Extensive swelling or redness spreading beyond the bite site
Blistering, oozing, or tissue breakdown
Nausea, dizziness, chills, or fever
Difficulty breathing or swallowing (possible allergic reaction or anaphylaxis)
A bite from a large tropical centipede (Scolopendra species)
In rare cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics if the wound becomes infected or perform wound care for deep tissue damage.
Avoid Folk Remedies
Do not try to suck out venom, apply alcohol directly, or use unverified home remedies like vinegar, ammonia, or baking soda pastes. These can worsen irritation or delay healing.
Prevent Future Bites
Centipedes thrive in damp, cluttered areas. To reduce the risk of future encounters:
Seal cracks and crevices around your home
Reduce moisture in basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces
Eliminate other pests (centipedes feed on insects and spiders)
Wear gloves when moving boxes, rocks, or wood outdoors
Clean the wound, apply ice, manage pain, and watch for complications. Most centipede bites heal on their own, but larger species can cause significant pain requiring medical evaluation.