Thalidomide

[violetblue]

There have been many articles recently about the proposed re-introduction of thalidomide to treat some conditions (I forget which, as noone has proposed to offer it to pregnant women, of course). It is also being used in developing countries, again I forget what it is being used to treat.

I wouldn't fancy taking this drug for whatever condition, but if it is reintroduced here, and licensed under a new name, would we know what it was? Would you take it, knowing it had been 'proven' to be safe for the purpose?

[Champagne]

Unfortunately I can't comment unless I know what it will be treating. I'm assuming that if it's planned use is for developing countries then it's against some major medical condition. But then new drugs are often tested out on developing countries before the full effects are known. It's a tricky one to answer.

[kick3m0n]

the use in the developing world is likely to be for treatment of leprosy, as thalidomide is very effective in treating lesions caused by leprosy. Thalidomide is also to be used to treatment of certain types of skin cnacers I think. I'd have no qualms about using the drug for these conditions to be honest. It's been more researched than any other "safe" drug such as paracetemol or ibuprofen, as research into it's possible uses has never stopped since the 60s. There is probably more info into the uses, applications and short or long term side affects of Thalidomide than most other drugs available today.

[violetblue]

Yes, very good point there.

[Dr Hungry]

I can't comment on future uses, but I do know that thalidomide is currently used in the treatment of myeloma, a cancer of some of the cells of the immune system, and as an anti-emetic in association with chemotherapy. It is licensed as thalidomide and it is never given to women of child-bearing potential.