Final answer:
Drug addiction in newborns is initially assumed to be neonatal abstinence syndrome, a result of in-utero exposure to addictive substances. It is crucial to differentiate between drug addiction and drug dependence, as the latter involves physical and/or psychological symptoms upon cessation. Withdrawal, especially from substances like alcohol and barbiturates, can be life-threatening and requires medical supervision.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drug addiction in newborns should always assume neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) and not withdrawal at first. NAS is a condition where newborns experience withdrawal because they have been exposed to addictive drugs, often opiates, while in the mother's womb. If a pregnant woman takes drugs, her baby may become dependent on them and suffer withdrawal symptoms after birth. Drug addiction describes the compulsive use of a substance such as a psychoactive drug despite the negative consequences. In contrast, drug dependence refers to the condition where stopping the use of a substance results in physical and/or psychological symptoms. Drug withdrawal can be a life-threatening process, especially for individuals with a long history of high doses of certain substances like alcohol and barbiturates, and should only be undertaken under medical supervision to ensure the safety of both the individual and, in the case of newborns, the child.