Drug withdrawal syndrome in newborn

This code identifies a newborn experiencing symptoms of drug withdrawal due to maternal substance use during pregnancy. The infant exhibits a constellation of signs and symptoms resulting from the abrupt cessation of drug exposure after birth.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a newborn is suffering from Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) or other drug withdrawal symptoms. Supporting documentation includes a history of maternal substance abuse, positive toxicology screens in the infant or mother, and clinical signs such as tremors, irritability, high-pitched crying, feeding difficulties, or seizures.

• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, with the primary diagnosis reflecting the specific drug exposure (e.g., maternal opioid use).
• Ensure the medical record specifies the newborn's symptoms are directly attributable to drug withdrawal, not other neonatal conditions.
• Do not confuse with codes for fetal alcohol syndrome, which has distinct diagnostic criteria.