Neonatology: neonatal abstinence syndrome: practice question

A Pediatrics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Pediatrics · Neonatology: neonatal abstinence syndrome

Sample item

A newborn of an opioid-dependent mother is irritable, with high-pitched cry, tremors, diarrhoea and sneezing. Which drug is used for severe withdrawal?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Morphine

Neonatal abstinence syndrome from opioid exposure is managed with supportive care and, when severe, an opioid such as morphine or methadone, which is then weaned. Naloxone must be avoided because it can precipitate seizures.

Option by option

  • A. Diazepam as first-line

    Benzodiazepines are not the first-line therapy for opioid withdrawal.

  • B. Phenytoin

    Phenytoin is not used for NAS.

  • C. Naloxone

    Naloxone can precipitate acute withdrawal and seizures in dependent babies.

  • D. Morphine (correct)

    Correct. Morphine is used for opioid withdrawal.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Pediatrics question

What is the answer to this Pediatrics question?

The best answer is D, Morphine. Neonatal abstinence syndrome from opioid exposure is managed with supportive care and, when severe, an opioid such as morphine or methadone, which is then weaned.

Why is "Diazepam as first-line" not the answer?

Benzodiazepines are not the first-line therapy for opioid withdrawal.

Why is "Phenytoin" not the answer?

Phenytoin is not used for NAS.

Why is "Naloxone" not the answer?

Naloxone can precipitate acute withdrawal and seizures in dependent babies.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Neonatology: neonatal abstinence syndrome in Pediatrics. Naloxone must be avoided because it can precipitate seizures.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Neonatology: neonatal abstinence syndrome?

Memorise milestones and the vaccine schedule as tables and revise them often. Then use the flashcards and the other Pediatrics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.