Thalidomide is a classic immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic small-molecule compound widely used in pharmaceutical research, clinical treatment and medicinal intermediate synthesis. It exerts multiple pharmacological effects including immune regulation, inhibition of inflammatory cytokine secretion, anti-tumor angiogenesis and sedative hypnotic activity. Clinically, it is mainly applied in the treatment of leprosy erythema nodosum, multiple myeloma, systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune and hematological diseases. In pharmaceutical development, it acts as a lead compound for structural modification, used to synthesize lenalidomide, pomalidomide and other immunomodulatory imide drugs with higher activity and lower side effects. It is also commonly used as a standard reference substance in pharmacological mechanism research, inflammation model establishment and anti-tumor drug screening, providing important molecular tools for exploring immune regulation pathways and new targeted therapeutic strategies.

Thalidomide carries severe reproductive toxicity and teratogenic risk, accompanied by moderate systemic toxicity and irritancy, requiring extremely strict management and protective measures during handling and storage. Inhalation of fine powder may cause respiratory irritation, dizziness and physical discomfort. Direct skin contact may lead to mild irritation, dryness or allergic reactions; eye contact can cause conjunctival congestion and burning sensation. Most critically, exposure during pregnancy can result in serious fetal malformation, so any contact by women of childbearing age must be strictly avoided. Accidental ingestion may cause drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, neurological symptoms and systemic adverse reactions. All operations must be conducted in a dedicated fume hood with closed system handling; operators shall wear fully enclosed protective clothing, chemical-resistant gloves, goggles and dust respiratory protection. Strictly isolate from pregnant women and living areas; store separately marked as teratogenic hazardous chemicals. Waste materials, residual powder and contaminated containers must be professionally disposed of as high-risk hazardous waste, and any random discharge or civilian circulation is strictly prohibited to prevent teratogenic pollution and public health hazards.