thalidomide: a sedative and hypnotic drug; withdrawn from sale after discovered to cause severe birth defects because it inhibits angiogenesis
teratogen: any agent that interferes with normal embryonic development: alcohol or thalidomide or X-rays or rubella are examples
pop music: music of general appeal to teenagers; a bland watered-down version of rock'n'roll with more rhythm and harmony and an emphasis on romantic love