The Moro reaction: a scoring system for neonatal narcotic withdrawal

Abstract

A Moro Scale was developed to evaluate the immediate and prolonged effects of neonatal addiction in two matched groups of infants, one delivered to women on low-dose methadone maintenance, the other delivered to drug-free mothers. The Moro reaction was elicited five times in succession in each infant and the most complete reaction was scored on a 20-point scale. There were significant differences between the two groups in mean Moro scores at all ages, and in the duration of the Moro reaction. Significant relationships also were found between total Moro scores and certain items on the Brazelton Scale. The Moro Scale score provides a method of following addicted newborns through the process of withdrawal, and of evaluating CNS irritability and possible early cerebral damage.