An Example of Science

Dr. Kelsey fights alone to stop the drug's release in the US. Just about the time the drug would have to be released, many European women who have been taking the drug give birth to deformed children, children without arms or legs.
The scientific error: Laboratory animals were given the drug, but, since the drug was intended for pregnant women, the tests should have used pregnant animals. New tests using pregnant animals show the same terrible effects. Dr. Kelsey is awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by President Kennedy. The drug: Thalidomide.

Previous slide Next slide Back to first slide View graphic version