Thalidomide is a medication that was originally developed in the late 1950s as a sedative and later prescribed to pregnant women to alleviate morning sickness. However, it was withdrawn from the market due to its association with severe birth defects. Despite its controversial history, thalidomide has since been repurposed and is used to treat certain conditions, such as multiple myeloma and leprosy-related complications, due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use is now strictly regulated, especially in women of childbearing age.