Teratogenic effects of drugs. A history of the problem
The article discusses the most significant steps of evolution of the ideas about drug effects on the fetus. A history of the thalidomide tragedy, in particular, the teratogenic effect of thalidomide is described, data about the importance of prevention of thalidomide syndrome in the 21 st century are presented. The principles of teratogenesis are highlighted. Information about the discovery of the teratogenic effects and their manifestations in some other important teratogens - retinoids, carbamazepine, valproic acid, diethylstilbestrol - is given.