Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) in Newborns: Causes & Symptoms

Methadone is a synthetic opioid used in the treatment of heroin addiction, and it is rarely prescribed for pregnant women. High-pitched crying and screaming in a newborn baby may be a sign of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a condition that occurs when a baby is born physically dependent on a substance that was used by the mother during pregnancy. NAS can be caused by a variety of substances, including opioids such as methadone. Symptoms of NAS can include high-pitched crying, irritability, tremors, seizures, diarrhea, and difficulty feeding. Treatment for NAS typically involves medications to manage the symptoms and supportive care to help the baby gradually withdraw from the substance. If you are concerned that your newborn baby may be experiencing NAS, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.