Teratogenic effects of drugs. A history of the problem
The article discusses the most significant steps of evolution of the ideas about drug effects on the fetus. A history of the thalidomide tragedy, in particular, the teratogenic effect of thalidomide is described, data about the importance of prevention of thalidomide syndrome in the 21 <sup>st</sup> century are presented. The principles of teratogenesis are highlighted. Information about the discovery of the teratogenic effects and their manifestations in some other important teratogens - retinoids, carbamazepine, valproic acid, diethylstilbestrol - is given.