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NCI Drug Dictionary

thalidomidePatient Information
A synthetic derivative of glutamic acid (alpha-phthalimido-glutarimide) with teratogenic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. Thalidomide acts primarily by inhibiting both the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) in stimulated peripheral monocytes and the activities of interleukins and interferons. This agent also inhibits polymorphonuclear chemotaxis and monocyte phagocytosis. In addition, thalidomide inhibits pro-angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), thereby inhibiting angiogenesis. Check for active clinical trials or closed clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)

Synonyms:alpha-phthalimidoglutarimide
N-phthaloylglutamimide
N-phthalylglutamic acid imide
US brand names:Synovir
Thalomid
Foreign brand names:Contergan
Distaval
Kevadon
Neurosedyn
Pantosediv
Sedoval K-17
Softenon
Talimol
Abbreviation:THAL
Chemical structure names:
  • 2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidinyl)-1H-isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione
  • 2,6-dioxo-3-phthalimidopiperidine
  • 3-phthalimidoglutarimide
  • N-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)phthalimide

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