Neonatal abstinence syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To study the substance misuse in pregnant mothers and its impact on their newborns.


METHODS
Case note review of the study population was undertaken. Infants of mothers who had taken substance of misuse were monitored regularly using Finnegan's score and treatment initiated based on a pre-existing protocol. The parameters that were studied included maternal drug habits, antenatal problems, and neonatal epidemiology with particular reference to growth, neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), its severity and management.


RESULTS
Out of 32 neonates, 28 had developed neonatal withdrawal requiring treatment. The earliest presentation of NAS was at six hours and the average time of presentation of NAS was 26 hours. The dose of methadone taken by the mother related well with the likelihood of development of NAS. The most common symptoms noted at the time of diagnosis were irritable cry, increased tone, tachypnea, sleeplessness and tremor.


CONCLUSIONS
Majority of neonates born to mothers on methadone exhibit neonatal abstinence syndrome and require pharmacological treatment. Neonates who had not exhibited symptoms of drug withdrawal within the first 3 days of life are unlikely to present with NAS requiring treatment.
Serane
V Tiroumourougane
VT
The Great Western Hospital, Swindon, United Kingdom. drtmserane@yahoo.com
Kurian
Ommen
O
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange; D008691:Methadone / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D009035:Mothers; D009294:Narcotics / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009357:Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology*; D009293:Opioid-Related Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation; D011247:Pregnancy; D011297:Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects / Q000188:drug therapy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012606:Scotland / Q000453:epidemiology; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D009294:Narcotics; D009020:Morphine; D008691:Methadone