The redemption of thalidomide: standardizing the risk of birth defects

Examines how a standardized drug distribution system contributed to a therapeutic and symbolic make-over of thalidomide. In the 1960s, thalidomide was seen as a horror drug that caused severe birth defects among over 10,000 babies; currently, thalidomide is viewed as a potentially life-saving drug which is being distributed in the USA. Discusses this transformation from a social worlds perspective, showing how the standardized drug distribution normalized the risk of foetal birth defects, while preserving the autonomy of health care professionals. (Original abstract - amended)