Infants Vulnerable to Drug Dependence at Birth
Newborns and Prescription Drug Withdrawal: What You Need to Know
Navigating parenthood can be tough, but it's especially challenging for babies exposed to prescription drugs during pregnancy. These little ones struggle to adapt to life without these substances, a condition known as Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS).
NOWS is more common than you might think. According to recent data, about seven out of every 1,000 newborn hospital stays involve a baby with NOWS.
So, what exactly is NOWS? And how can you help ensure your baby stays healthy and recovers when serious symptoms arise? Here's the deal.
How Babies Develop Dependence on Prescription Drugs
Babies don't develop an addiction in the traditional sense, but they can become physically dependent on substances they were exposed to in the womb. This happens because nutrients and medications can pass through the placenta into the fetal bloodstream.
Common prescription drugs that have a direct impact on a fetus include:
- Heroin
- Codeine
- Oxycodone
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Benzodiazepines (benzos)
- Barbiturates
- Some antidepressants, such as SSRIs
- Other opioids
- Alcohol
When a baby is exposed to these substances, their body can become dependent on them. After delivery, as drug levels decrease, the baby may experience withdrawal symptoms.
Severe Symptoms of Prescription Drug Dependence in Newborns
A baby born in a state of withdrawal can have a significant impact on the family. Symptoms typically start 24 to 48 hours after birth and last from one week to six months, depending on how long it takes for the substances to leave the baby's system.
In some extreme cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures in babies. If your baby shows signs of withdrawal, especially if you are using prescription drugs, even when prescribed, or are unsure about medications you are taking, seek medical attention immediately.
Helping Soothe Withdrawal Symptoms
Watching your baby go through these withdrawal symptoms can be scary and upsetting. But there are some things you can do to help, such as breastfeeding, cuddling, holding the baby 24/7, and creating a quiet environment.
Avoiding Prescription Drugs for Chronic Pain
Many mothers of infants with NOWS may not consider themselves to have an addiction. Instead, they might be victims of over-prescription.
If you have chronic pain, it's essential to avoid opioids. Opioids are only recommended for acute pain, such as post-surgery or serious injury pain. Avoiding opioids, especially during childbearing years, can help prevent babies from being exposed to harmful substances.
Finding Help and Support
If you or your baby need help dealing with withdrawal symptoms or substance use, you're not alone. Resources like SAMHSA's National Helpline can provide guidance and support. It's important to remember that we all need to work together to prevent the toll NOWS takes on babies and families.
Navigating parenthood can present unique challenges, especially for newborns exposed to prescription drugs during pregnancy.Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) is more common than you might think, affecting approximately 7 out of every 1,000 newborn hospital stays.NOWS occurs when babies become physically dependent on substances they were exposed to in the womb, such as heroin, codeine, oxycodone, methadone, buprenorphine, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, some antidepressants, other opioids, alcohol, and certain medications for respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye-health, hearing, or neurological disorders.When a baby experiences withdrawal, symptoms can include irritability, high-pitched crying, tremors, seizures, excessive sweating, fevers, vomiting, diarrhea, sleep problems, and slow weight gain.Withdrawal can have a significant impact on the family and may last from one week to six months, depending on the drug and the length of exposure.In some extreme cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures in babies. If your baby shows signs of withdrawal, immediate medical attention is crucial.To help soothe withdrawal symptoms, mothers can breastfeed, cuddle, hold the baby 24/7, and create a quiet environment.Avoiding prescription drugs for chronic pain, especially opioids, can help prevent babies from being exposed to harmful substances.If you have a history of chronic pain and are taking prescription drugs, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks to your baby and discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider.If you or your baby need help dealing with withdrawal symptoms or substance use, resources like SAMHSA's National Helpline can provide guidance and support.Remember, ensuring the health and wellness of newborns involves not just physical care but also understanding the potential impact of prescription drugs and seeking help when needed.Preventing the toll NOWS takes on babies and families requires collective effort, including education, awareness, and support for at-risk mothers.*Fitness and exercise, nutrition, skin-care, mental-health, men's-health, women's-health, and parenting practices can also play a crucial role in promoting the overall health and wellbeing of families.
