Thalidomide
View Patient InformationA synthetic derivative of glutamic acid (alpha-phthalimido-glutarimide) with teratogenic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. Thalidomide acts primarily by inhibiting both the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in stimulated peripheral monocytes and the activities of interleukins and interferons. This agent also inhibits polymorphonuclear chemotaxis and monocyte phagocytosis. In addition, thalidomide inhibits pro-angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), thereby inhibiting angiogenesis.
| Synonym: | alpha-phthalimidoglutarimide N-phthaloylglutamimide N-phthalylglutamic acid imide |
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| US brand name: | Thalomid |
| Foreign brand name: | Contergan Distaval Kevadon Neurosedyn Pantosediv Sedoval K-17 Sedoval K17 Softenon Talimol |
| Chemical structure: | 2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidinyl)-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione 2,6-dioxo-3-phthalimidopiperidine 3-phthalimidoglutarimide N-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)phthalimide |