Thalidomid

Thalidomid

Thalidomide is a medication that was first introduced in the 1950s. It was initially used as a sedative or hypnotic, but has since been discovered to have numerous other medical uses. However, it is perhaps most infamous for its role in one of the biggest drug disasters in history, when it was found to cause severe birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

History

Thalidomide was first developed by the German pharmaceutical company Grünenthal in 1954. It was marketed as a safe, over-the-counter sedative that could also be used to treat morning sickness in pregnant women. However, in the early 1960s, it was discovered that thalidomide caused severe birth defects in the children of women who had taken the drug during pregnancy. This led to the drug being withdrawn from the market in many countries.

Medical uses

Despite its troubled history, thalidomide has been found to have a number of medical uses. It is currently used to treat a variety of conditions, including multiple myeloma, erythema nodosum leprosum, and certain types of cancer. It is also being investigated for its potential use in treating other conditions, such as HIV/AIDS and influenza.

Mechanism of action

Thalidomide is a teratogen, which means it can cause birth defects. It is thought to do this by inhibiting angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels form. This can lead to a lack of oxygen and nutrients in certain parts of the body, leading to tissue damage and birth defects.

Side effects

The most serious side effect of thalidomide is its potential to cause birth defects. Other side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious conditions, such as blood clots and nerve damage.

See also

• List of teratogens and substances that cause birth defects
• Phocomelia
• Frances Oldham Kelsey

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