In this blog, explain about the Thalidomide tragedy that was occur in 1957-1961 and in which many pregnant women and new born babies suffered. And explain about the action taken by US government and Germany government.
The Discovery and Introduction of Thalidomide
The discovery of Thalidomide in the era 1957 in West Germany which was made for the sedative action which use in treatment of anxiety, insomnia, gastritis and tension like problem.
It came to market in 1957 as the name “CONTERGAN” which was only given when prescribed by the Doctor. Thalidomide tragedy was first tragedy by which their is implementation of efficacy and safety during drug development surveillance before any drug comes into the market. The thalidomide drug used for the treatment against vomiting to overcome the morning sickness in Pregnant women.
In 1960
the drug thalidomide was become OTC (over the counter) and due to which it is available without prescription. Now, in this case, the number of pregnant women takes this drug without the consultant of the doctor. After some months a huge tragedy would be seen that the women who had taken the thalidomide drug, their infants are born with malformation of limbs (also called Phocomelia) and the percentage of this defect is 40%. It means about 40% of the infants get touch with the Phocomelia from women who had taken the drug Thalidomide.
The Tragic Consequences
- The Birth Defects: infants born with malformation of limbs which is also called “Phocomelia”. Around 40% infant defects. In this problem the baby is born with an incomplete formation of body parts (like hands, leg etc).
- Global Spread: Thalidomide tragedy affected different regions mainly in the USA, Germany, Europe etc.
Changes in Drug Regulations
In 1962, after the Thalidomide tragedy the government took action against this tragedy. The US government implements the rule and regulation for drugs by which drugs should have to pass with proof of efficacy and safety before they come into the market.
