Re: Thalidimide - Second Plea for Information!
From: Dr. David Wiseman (david.wiseman@adhesions.org)
Mon Aug 4 17:10:39 2003
Dear All
Kathy is certainly correct - Thalidomide is a very dangerous drug when
given to pregnant women. Growing up in England, I also remember
children with short or no arms and legs.
However the reason why it is such a bad drug for pregnant woman may make
it an excellent drug for some conditions that depend on the development
of blood vessels. Cancer is the #1 example here and there are some
clinical studies ongoing which suggest it may be VERY useful in cancer,
provided that it is not given to pregnant women.
Adhesions may also depend on the development of blood vessels and so
thalidomide (and other drugs which may do the same thing) may find a
place here.
I have personally done some experiments with drugs like thalidomide
which suggests that this may be true, but we are a long way off.
Any drug when used in the wrong person at the wrong time can have
devastating effects. But used at the right time any drug provide
enormous benefits.
Regards
--
David Wiseman