A multidisciplinary approach is necessary in the neonatal withdrawal syndrome]

Two baby boys, born of mothers that were abusing drugs, were restless and hypertonic, typical symptoms of the neonatal withdrawal syndrome. The symptoms disappeared during treatment with phenobarbital and methadone. The children were then placed in a foster home. Symptoms of the neonatal withdrawal syndrome are excitation of the central nervous system, the gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory tract. For both legal and medical reasons it is essential to test the urine of the neonate for drugs. The Finnegan score is a useful tool to decide whether medical treatment is indicated. Medical treatment consists of the administration of phenobarbital and or methadone. The Child Protection Agency of the Ministry of Justice is notified of the child's birth. If parents that are abusing drugs have been shown not to be able to look after their children, they are limited in their right to parenthood.