The Return of Thalidomide

In the mid-1950s, a new drug called thalidomide was prescribed to help pregnant women with morning sickness in 46 countries. That turned out to be the worst drug those woman could have taken, as it caused uncounted miscarriages and at least 10,000 babies born with severe birth defects. The drug was banned in most countries a few years later. But it never really went away. Thalidomide has uses for other conditions, which came about because of extensive testing after the tragic rollout. The thalidomide disaster also changed the way we test drugs. Hank Green tells the story of thalidomide and why it's in use now and for what. Yes, there are strict protocols to make sure it isn't given to anyone who could possibly be pregnant.  

On another note, it's good to see that Hank Green feels well enough to host a video while undergoing cancer treatment. We wish him the best.