Lost Women of Science The Devil in the Details - Chapter Two
Sep 19, 2024
In the 1960s, the rise of thalidomide offers hope but hides danger. Frances Kelsey stands firm against the pharmaceutical push for quick approval, seeking safety proof for Kevadon. As troubling reports of birth defects emerge, particularly focomelia, the race to uncover the truth intensifies. The podcast highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women in science against a backdrop of personal struggles and medical crises, showcasing the profound impact of individual stories on societal issues.
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Pharma Boom and False Claims
- In 1950s Germany, pharmaceuticals flourished as part of the Wirtschaftswunder economic miracle.
- Contergan, with active ingredient thalidomide, was marketed as a non-toxic wonder drug despite being untrue.
Personal Tragedy Uncovers Harm
- A Grunenthal employee gave thalidomide samples to his pregnant wife; their daughter was born without ears.
- This tragic event highlighted early undisclosed drug dangers.
Kelsey's Crucial FDA Delay
- FDA medical examiner Frances Kelsey stalled thalidomide's U.S. approval by calling its application incomplete.
- She leveraged FDA rules to delay approval, citing insufficient safety data.