Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome

Abstract

The incidence of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) has increased significantly in the past 2 decades. While management approaches have traditionally focused on pharmacologic treatment, the eat, sleep, console approach optimizes nonpharmacologic methods such as low stimulation environments, parental presence, on-demand feedings, and swaddling and holding. Treatment should not only focus on immediate hospitalization needs such as withdrawal signs, feeding, weight management, and maternal-infant bonding, but address prenatal and postpartum maternal care and provide comprehensive and ongoing support for the family after discharge. This article explores management approaches and treatment considerations across the continuum of care for infants with NOWS.

Keywords: Eat, Sleep, Console approach; Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome; Opioid exposure.