Thalidomide capsules, Science Museum Group, 2019
The Story of Thalidomide:
A New Chapter in Drug Regulation
On November 26, 1961, Thalidomide*, a popular cure-all medication used primarily for morning sickness, was withdrawn by its distributor, Grunenthal, from the German market. By halting the distribution of the drug, German health officials notified the world of the dangers it posed to the human body, especially pregnant women. Thalidomide killed thousands of infants, and maimed 20,000 children, leaving them with severe congenital malformations. The Thalidomide Tragedy marked a turning point in toxicity testing. It prompted stricter drug regulation by the U.S. government, and emphasized transparency between the government, pharmaceutical companies, and its consumers.
“The impact was felt not only by those directly affected and their families, but also by wider society, undermining trust in pharmaceutical companies, doctors and the medical justice system for decades to come.”
-Ruth Blue, researcher and oral historian, 2021
Senior Division
Group Website
Ming Haller, Taletta Jones
Student Composed Words: 1200
Media Length: 2:46
Process Paper Words: 500
*When referring to the chemical compound, thalidomide is not capitalized, when referring to the brand name, Thalidomide is capitalized.