Thalidomide usage in Wales: the need to follow guidelines

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.