Newborn withdrawal (neonatal abstinence syndrome)

Overview

Parents' closeness and holding help babies the most.

Symptoms usually start 1 to 5 days after birth.

Parents can help with soothing, feeding, and sleep.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Excessive crying
• Long crying spells in a baby

Less common

• Poor feeding
• Shaking
• Sneezing
• Loose stools

Look up a symptom: Vomiting

When to get medical care

Causes

Drug exposure.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Skin-to-skin
• Quiet, dim room

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treatment for opioid use in pregnancy

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your child's pediatrician.
• They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a neonatologist (newborn specialist).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Parents in recovery: Buprenorphine and methadone in pregnancy are safe.

For caregivers

• Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
• Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
• Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most babies do well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Newborn withdrawal (neonatal abstinence syndrome)