Background Thalidomide is a potentially useful drug for several dermatologi
cal disorders.
Objectives To assess prescribing and monitoring practices for this drug in
Wales.
Methods A questionnaire was completed by 17 of 19 consultant dermatologists
concerning thalidomide usage in Wales (population 2.93 million),
Results Eleven of the 17 respondents had used thalidomide in 40 patients. O
nly two consultants gave information leaflets and only five obtained writte
n consent. Four obtained baseline nerve conduction studies and nine obtaine
d these during therapy. Of seven women of child-bearing age currently takin
g thalidomide, none had had baseline pregnancy tests,
Conclusions We describe variability in prescribing practices for thalidomid
e. Published guidelines are reviewed and suggestions made concerning consen
t forms, pregnancy testing, nerve conduction studies and patient informatio
n.