R-thalidomide

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Thalidomide was a sedative that got prescribed to expectant mothers in the late 1950s to ease 'morning sickness'. Unfortunately, it led to many baby deaths and limb deformities in numerous other infants. It was withdrawn from the market soon after due to its severe side effects. Thalidomide was marketed as a racemate, meaning a 50-50 mix of two possible enantiomers. It's possible that only one enantiomer of the medication had teratogenic properties, but even if administered alone, it quickly converts into both forms inside the body. In recent years, thalidomide has been brought back to medical use for treating leprosy and certain cancers under strict guidelines to avoid giving it to women who may become pregnant or are already pregnant.