Neonatal abstinence syndrome is also known as NAS. It is a group of problems that occur in a newborn who has been exposed to addictive street drugs or prescription  drugs before birth. When a baby is exposed to these drugs, he may get addicted to these drugs and go through withdrawal after birth.

 
Babies born with NAS are likely to be low birth weight. They have problems with breathing and feeding and may have seizures. They usually stay in the hospital longer than babies without NAS.

What causes NAS ?

 
NAS occurs when a pregnant woman takes opiate or narcotic drugs  such as codeine, heroine, oxycodone (Oxycontin) methadone or buprenorphine. These drugs can pass though the placenta to the baby. The baby becomes addicted along with the mother.

The baby is still dependent on the drug at birth. Since the baby is  no longer getting the drug after birth, he may experience withdrawal symptoms.

What are the symptoms of NAS ?

 
Symptoms of NAS may begin in about 1 – 3  days after birth. It  may however take a week to appear. Symptoms include the following :

• excessive crying
• diarrhea
• excessive sucking
• blotchy skin coloring
• poor feeding
• rapid breathing
• irritability
• tremors
• vomiting
• increased muscle tone
• sleeping problems
• poor growth
• stuffy nose
• sweating
• seizures

 
These symptoms are however dependent on the following :

• the type of drug the mother used
• how long the mother used the drug
• how much of the drug she was using
• whether the baby was premature or full term
• how the body breaks down the drug

Are there any tests for NAS ?

 
These tests can be used to diagnose NAS. They include the following :

• Neonatal abstinence syndrome scoring system. This system gives points for each NAS symptom depending on how severe it is. The baby’s score can help determine treatment.
• toxicology screen of the first bowel movement
• urine test

What are the treatment options for NAS ?

 
Treatment options  may include the following :

• taking medicine to treat or manage severe withdrawal symptoms . The baby’s doctor will give him drugs similar to what he is addicted to. The dose of the drug is gradually reduced overtime to help his body get use to being off the medicine.
• getting fluids intravenously to prevent dehydration from throwing up and diarrhea
• drinking high calorie baby formula to help babies who are having trouble feeding and growing

 
Babies usually feel better in about 5 to 30 days of treatment.

How to prevent NAS in babies ?

 
It is important to let your doctor know all the drugs you are using. If you are not pregnant and using drugs , seek the help of your health care provider to help you quit. If you are pregnant and taking drugs, ask  your health care provider for ways to  help you quit.
 
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