Florida Office of the Attorney General – 2013
Report of a Florida task force on the issue of prescription drug abuse during pregnancy, and the resulting problem of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in newborns. Presents an overview of the issue, with data illustrating the extent of the problem nationwide and in the state. Includes detailed information on the prevalence and costs of NAS. Describes the roles of medical professionals and child welfare agencies in dealing with NAS babies. Includes a section on the importance of prevention, prenatal screening, and public awareness efforts. Also discusses the use of pharmacological treatment programs for addicted pregnant women (primarily methadone and buprenorphine), as well as best practices in treating NAS infants. Summarizes resources available to address the problem. Appendices include data on NAS babies by county, prevention campaign ideas, a screening tool, and a list of applicable federal grants for NAS programs.
