Bendectin
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Bendectin, (known as Debendox® in the UK) is a mixture of pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6), and doxylamine, is a drug prescribed to treat nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. It was voluntarily removed from the market in 1983 by its manufacturer, Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, following numerous lawsuits alleging that it caused birth defects. These lawsuits were largely unfounded, however. There was an overwhelming body of evidence at the time and which continues accumulating to this day that Bendectin does not cause birth defects. The most famous case involving the drug is Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals (1993), which left lasting implications for the way science is used in the courtroom. The Supreme Court ruled that judges had the responsibility to keep junk science out of the courtroom.
The drug has recently resurfaced and is currently marketed under the same name. It can also be made at home using Vitamin B-6 and one-half of a Unisom, both of which are available over-the-counter.
[edit] See also
Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals
[edit] External links
- The History of Bendectin, from www.babyzone.com.
- Project on Scientific Knowledge and Public Policy (SKAPP) website, collection of original documents and commentary on the Daubert standard and the use of science in public policy.
- [1] Personal website on Debandox and how it has affected one young womans life.
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