diethylstilbestrol (DES)

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic form of estrogen, a hormone that regulates female reproductive functions. It was prescribed from the 1940s to the 1970s to pregnant women to prevent complications like miscarriage and preterm labor. However, later research revealed that DES exposure in the womb increased the risk of serious health issues for their children, including reproductive problems, certain cancers, and fertility challenges. As a result, its use was discontinued for pregnancy-related purposes. Today, DES is recognized as an example of how a medication can have unintended long-term effects, highlighting the importance of rigorous drug safety evaluation.