Managing newborns at risk for neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)/neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS): Updates and emerging best practices

ASEM documentary overview

Official Canadian Paediatric Society document (2025) on “Managing newborns at risk for neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)/neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS): Updates and emerging best practices”. The incidence of newborns at risk for withdrawal due to antenatal substance exposure has increased rapidly, presenting significant health and early developmental concerns. Access to culturally safer, trauma-informed prenatal care and supports for opioid consumption improves health outcomes for both the mother/birthing parent and the fetus. Newborns are at high risk for experiencing symptoms of abstinence or withdrawa.

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