NAS (Neonatal Abstinence)

Name: NAS (Neonatal Abstinence)
Creator: Daniel Diaz-Gil, MD
Keywords: NAS, neonatal, abstinence, withdrawal, Finnegan, opioid, newborn, NOWS, scoring, substance exposure

Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Score for assessing neonatal withdrawal symptoms

The Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) score quantifies withdrawal symptoms in opioid-exposed newborns to guide timing and intensity of pharmacologic treatment. Based on clinical observations of withdrawal manifestations including irritability, sleep disturbances, feeding difficulties, and gastrointestinal symptoms, this tool helps standardize assessments across the first weeks of life. Use this scoring system in all term and late preterm (≥35 weeks) infants with perinatal opioid exposure to determine whether treatment is needed and monitor response to therapy.

Clinically Verified· 5 tests

For educational and informational purposes only. Verify all results before clinical application.

Cry *

Sleep After Feeding *

Moro Reflex *

Tremors *

Muscle Tone *

Excoriation *

Myoclonus *

Seizures *

Sweating *

Fever *

Yawning *

Mottling *

Nasal Stuffiness *

Sneezing *

Nasal Flaring *

Respiratory Rate *

Stools *

Feeding *

Vomiting *

References

Finnegan LP, Connaughton JF Jr, Kron RE, Emich JP. Neonatal abstinence syndrome: assessment and management. Addict Dis. 1975;2(1-2):141-158.
Grossman MR, et al. An Initiative to Improve the Quality of Care of Infants With Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. Pediatrics. 2017;139(6):e20163360.[DOI]

Reviewed by Daniel Diaz-Gil, MD · Last updated March 2026

Medical disclaimer

This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional clinical judgment. Always independently verify results before making clinical decisions.

Professional Resources — Tools used by pediatricians for clinical scoring

PEWS Reference CardsPediatric Early Warning Score quick-reference cards for bedside use~$15via Amazon Pediatric Digital ScaleAccurate weight measurement for clinical assessment~$40via Amazon BoardVitals Pediatrics QbankBoard-style questions for general pediatrics certificationsubscriptionvia BoardVitals