Neonates typically develop seizures due to drug withdrawal within how many hours after birth?

Neonates usually begin to exhibit signs of withdrawal, including seizures, within 48 to 72 hours after birth. This time frame is crucial because it aligns with the peak of withdrawal symptoms that can occur in infants who were exposed to substances in utero. The onset of seizures can vary depending on several factors, including the type of substance the mother used, the timing of the last dose, and the individual characteristics of the neonate.

In cases of opioid withdrawal, seizures are typically not seen until the later part of the withdrawal period, which can start as soon as 24 hours but often appears more prominently within the 48 to 72-hour window. Recognizing this timing helps healthcare providers monitor at-risk infants closely for neurological symptoms and administer appropriate interventions, such as supportive care and, if necessary, pharmacological treatment for withdrawal.

Understanding this timeline is essential for early identification and management of withdrawal symptoms in neonates, contributing to better outcomes for these infants in a clinical setting.