What is Thalidomide?
Thalidomide is a potent drug used to treat severe skin sores from leprosy and has been used in the past to treat other injuries and conditions. Thalidomide affects the immune system in ways that are still unknown. Adverse Effects of Thalidomide
Thalidomide has horrific effects on fetuses. The effects on the newborn can be seen from just a single dose. Newborns often are born lacking fingers, arms, eyes, bones, and with heart abnormalities. Pregnant women and those who might be pregnant should not take Thalidomide. Abnormalities in newborn children can also be linked to the father, so the FDA has warned men not to take Thalidomide if there is a possibility of pregnancy. Current Status of Thalidomide
The FDA has strictly regulated the use of Thalidomide. Only certified doctors and nurses that have been given special courses in Thalidomide are allowed to prescribe it. The program (System for Thalidomide Education and Proscribing Safety) is the only way to legally receive Thalidomide because it can cause such severe birth defects. Patients must go through a thorough course in Thalidomide, agree to and sign waivers that state they understand the risk. Usually, they must agree that they will not get pregnant and agree to a two months of contraception use before being issued Thalidomide. If you have been injured or given birth to a child that has been injured by Thalidomide, you may wish to contact an experienced products liability attorney. A products liability attorney can help recover your loss and persevere your rights. |
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