Thalidomide

Thalidomide is a drug with a controversial history, initially used as a sedative and for morning sickness, later found to cause severe birth defects. Today, it is used for specific medical conditions like leprosy and multiple myeloma.

Uses

• Past: Morning sickness (withdrawn due to teratogenic effects).
• Present: Leprosy, multiple myeloma.

Lessons

• Highlights the importance of rigorous drug testing and regulation.

Writing Tips

• Contrast its historical tragedy with its modern medical uses.
• Explore ethical dilemmas in drug development.