Frances Oldham Kelsey
Pharmacologist against thalidomide
Born
July 24th, 1914
111 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2015
10 years ago — 101 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
Canada
Links & References
A pharmacologist and physician, contributed significantly to drug safety regulations. Conducted extensive reviews of thalidomide in the early 1960s while working at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Refused to approve the drug for use in the United States due to concerns about its safety for pregnant women. Her decision prevented thousands of potential birth defects, leading to increased scrutiny and reform in drug approval processes.
Prevented approval of thalidomide in the U.S.
Received the President's Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service
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