The authors of a related editorial discuss the limitations of the research, as the data were derived from administrative records; however they note that such data are unique in providing the power to detect rare outcomes. They say the study findings highlight how the current opioid epidemic in the US affects women and infants, and that the large expansion of opioid prescribing and prescribing of psychotropic medications to pregnant women raise major concerns.
According to the authors, the findings suggest differences in risk of withdrawal depending on which psychotropics the infant is exposed to, suggesting opportunities to tailor postnatal monitoring and treatment to those at highest risk. They also suggest a clear need for a comprehensive, evidence informed strategy regarding opioid use in pregnancy.