“No one who hears it ever forgets the sound.
When newborn babies begin to withdraw from powerful drugs, they shriek at a high, telltale pitch. Cut off from the substances they ingested through their mothers, they convulse, projectile vomit or writhe from skin-scorching diarrhea.
Their tiny bodies shudder violently. They cannot be consoled.”
Quote from USA TODAY, June 2015, “Drug dependent babies challenge doctors, politicians” Shelley DuBois and Tony Gonzalez, The Tennessean
The state of Tennessee has been monitoring a growing epidemic since the beginning of 2013 – a surge in births of drug-dependent babies. The state is dealing with a pain medication epidemic that is claiming the tiniest victims – newborn babies! Last year, 921 babies were born addicted in the state and now, Tennessee is fighting back by cracking down on what is known as “doctor shopping” — a trend that is all about finding a doctor that will prescribe pain medications. For an addict this means they can get multiple prescriptions to fuel their habit.
With Tennessee’s 2012 Prescription Safety Act things have changed for the better. The new database system flags people who try to get drugs from four or more sources. This amped up state prescription database requires doctors and pharmacists to use it when doling out pain meds. What a great idea! Why didn’t we think of this sooner?
As we have seen over-and-over for the past six months abuse of, and addiction to, Opioids (prescription painkillers) has skyrocketed leading to a heroin epidemic, and now, an epidemic of drug-dependent babies. Babies born addicted have to go through an excruciating drug withdrawal, known as neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). These babies can have seizures, brain damage and in later years school difficulties and behavior problems.
The complicated issue here is that the mothers are victims, too. Many are prescribed these addictive medications by a doctor to treat their pain. These women not only become addicted to the pain medications, but they also become pregnant. Once pregnant they become fearful of discussing their addiction with their doctor, family or friends. What needs to be understood is that there are two victims who need treatment – mother and child. This is a very heart-wrenching time for both and so compassion and understanding are necessary. Also, necessary are laws that make women feel safe so they can seek help for their addiction, and not fear losing their babies.
If you suspect that a friend or loved one is addicted to pain medications and pregnant you should talk about it with them, suggest they speak with their doctor, not be judgmental and help them to find the correct treatment.
DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this blog is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or psychiatric advice for individual conditions or treatment and does not substitute for a medical or psychiatric examination. A psychiatrist must make a determination about any treatment or prescription. Dr. Paul does not assume any responsibility or risk for the use of any information contained within this blog.
