Thalidomide carries the risk of many side effects, including abdominal pain, infection, chills, diarrhea, liver abnormalities, anemia, peripheral edema, hyperlipidemia, leukopenia, insomnia, sensory neuropathy, albuminuria, hematuria, ovarian failure, and thrombosis.
Because of the risk of birth defects, it is strictly contraindicated in women who are pregnant or might become pregnant. Scientists are working on developing a safer version of thalidomide.
A number of other drugs are used to treat specific manifestations of lupus.