DEFINITION
Neonatal Drug Withdrawal also called Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome occurs when a baby who has been exposed to drugs in the womb has withdrawal symptoms. This occurs because the baby is no longer exposed to the drug the mother was taking. Medications, alcohol, and illegal drugs can cause this condition. It can take weeks to months for withdrawal symptoms in a baby to go away. Without treatment, it can be a life-threatening condition. If you used drugs during your pregnancy, be sure to tell your doctor right away. That way, your baby can be tested and treated soon after birth.
CAUSES
This condition is caused when a woman uses drugs or alcohol during pregnancy. Substances that cause this condition include:
- Heroin
- Methadone
- Amphetamines
- Dope
- Cocaine
- Alcohol
- Opium
- Benzodiazepines
- Barbiturates
- Antidepressants
RISK FACTORS
These factors increase the chance that the baby will develop this condition. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following risk factors:
- Alcohol drug abuse during pregnancy
- Drug dependence or use
SYMPTOMS
Depending on the type of drug and the intensity of exposure, symptoms can be seen within a period that can vary from a few hours to a few days after birth. If your baby has any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to this condition. These could be caused by other conditions. Tell the doctor if your baby has any of these symptoms:
- Irritability
- Bad nutrition
- Breastfeeding difficulties
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- High pitched cry
- Excessive crying
- Sweat
- Accelerated breathing
- Shaking
- Difficulty to sleep
- Yawning
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion (difficulty breathing through the nose)
- Increased muscle tone
- Fever
- Seizures
DIAGNOSIS
The doctor will monitor the baby based on his symptoms and the mother's medical and drug use history. To diagnose the baby correctly, the doctor needs to know what drug you used during pregnancy, how much, and how often. The doctor will also do a physical exam on the baby. Tests may include urinalysis, hair or stool exams, blood tests, and x-rays.
TREATMENT
Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for your baby. Treatment options include:
Thorough Check
The baby may need to stay in the hospital so he can be closely monitored. You will be monitored for:
- Signs of seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Other severe withdrawal symptoms
Medicines
Your baby may be given medicine to help him through withdrawal. Medications will vary depending on which drug the baby stopped receiving.
Supportive Care
Your baby may need intravenous (through a needle) fluids, oxygen, high-calorie formula, tube feeding, or other support for recovery. Follow your doctor's instructions.
PREVENTION
To help reduce your baby's chance of developing this condition, take the following steps:
- Stop using drugs before you get pregnant or as soon as you know you are pregnant.
- Once you're pregnant, talk to your doctor about any drugs you've used and get regular prenatal care.
- Seek treatment for problems caused by drug abuse before you get pregnant.