Wonder Drug ()
Are you ready to embark on a riveting journey through the most notorious drug scandal of the twentieth century? Look no further than “Wonder Drug” by Jennifer Vanderbes. In this powerful and meticulously researched account, Vanderbes shines a light on the dark underbelly of the pharmaceutical industry and exposes the never-before-told story of its American survivors.
The story begins in 1959 when the William S. Merrell Company, a Cincinnati pharmaceutical firm, quietly introduced thalidomide to the American market. Touted as a sedative without risks, the drug was distributed under the guise of clinical trials. Doctors, eager to offer their patients a promising new wonder drug, eagerly participated, believing that the approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was imminent.
However, one woman at the FDA, Frances Kelsey, grew suspicious. In 1960, when the application for thalidomide landed on her desk, Kelsey quickly realized the severe birth abnormalities caused by the drug in other countries. Together with a team of dedicated doctors, parents, and journalists, she fought tirelessly to block its authorization in the United States and prevent its sale worldwide.
Just when Vanderbes thought she was writing about an FDA success story, she stumbled upon a shocking truth buried for decades. Several American pharmaceutical firms had distributed unmarked thalidomide samples for over five years in shoddy clinical trials. Tens of thousands of unwitting patients, including hundreds of pregnant women, had been exposed to the drug. Deceived by the pharmaceutical firms, betrayed by doctors, and ignored by the government, these Americans spent their lives unaware that thalidomide had caused their birth defects.
Through her exploration of government and corporate archives, court records, and interviews with key players, Vanderbes unveils the sinister reality behind this hidden chapter in American history. “Wonder Drug” gives a voice to the unrecognized victims of this scandal and exposes the deceptive practices of Big Pharma that continue to endanger lives today.
Product Details
- Publisher: Random House Publishing Group; June 27, 2023
- Language: English
- ISBN: 9780525512264
- ISBN: 9780525512271
Introducing “Wonder Drug” by Jennifer Vanderbes
In her latest book, Jennifer Vanderbes takes readers on an eye-opening journey through the most notorious drug scandal of the twentieth century. “Wonder Drug” is a riveting and meticulously researched account that uncovers the true story of thalidomide’s impact on American patients and exposes the dark practices of the pharmaceutical industry.
Review
“Wonder Drug” is a masterful piece of investigative journalism that brings to light a shocking episode in American history. Vanderbes’s captivating storytelling and attention to detail make for a compelling read that will leave you questioning the ethics of the pharmaceutical industry.
Vanderbes’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex scientific and legal concepts easy to understand. She seamlessly blends personal narratives with historical documentation, immersing readers in the lives of those affected by thalidomide. Through interviews with key players and extensive research, Vanderbes unravels a web of deception and uncovers the truth behind the widespread distribution of this dangerous drug.
One of the strengths of “Wonder Drug” is Vanderbes’s ability to humanize the victims of thalidomide. By giving voice to those who have been ignored for decades, she forces readers to confront the realities of the pharmaceutical industry’s disregard for patient safety. The stories of these individuals, their struggles, and their resilience will stay with you long after you finish reading.
This book also serves as a cautionary tale for the present day. Vanderbes exposes the continuing deceptive practices of “Big Pharma” that put profits before people. By shedding light on the thalidomide scandal, she compels readers to question the safety and efficacy of the drugs they consume and the responsibility of pharmaceutical companies and regulatory agencies.
Order Your Copy Today
If you are a fan of investigative journalism, historical accounts, or simply interested in the dark side of the pharmaceutical industry, “Wonder Drug” is a must-read. Join Jennifer Vanderbes on this extraordinary journey as she unravels a decades-long cover-up, champions the voices of the victims, and exposes the truth behind the power and influence of Big Pharma.
Order your copy of “Wonder Drug” today and prepare to be captivated by this powerful and thought-provoking book.