Observations on methadone withdrawal in 16 neonates.

The recent extensive use of methadone for treatment of heroin addiction has taught that, in adults, withdrawal of methadone can produce a withdrawal syndrome similar to heroin. After considerable experience with heroin withdrawal in neonates and in view of controversy and limited studies regarding methadone withdrawal, the study herein reported was undertaken to compare the experiences with both heroin and methadone withdrawal symptoms in newborns. A number of methadone-treated pregnant women deliver their infants at Freedmen's Hospital, affording the opportunity to observe neonates born to methadone-addicted mothers.