Babies exposed to narcotic pain relievers more likely to experience withdrawal

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a drug withdrawal syndrome in infants following birth, has historically been associated with illicit drug use among pregnant women. But a study shows that pregnant women are commonly being prescribed opioids -- narcotic pain relievers such as hydrocodone -- which results in an increased likelihood of NAS. In addition, the study found that opioid type and duration of exposure combined with tobacco use or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use (for treating depression and anxiety) augmented risks for NAS.



from Today's Healthcare News -- ScienceDaily http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/health_medicine/todays_healthcare/~3/V41g03CGvM0/150413130816.htm