Neurobehavioral problems at age 2 years in children with prenatal opioid exposure

To evaluate factors associated with borderline/clinical range Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) scores in opioid-exposed children.

Retrospective study of 94 children with prenatal opioid exposure evaluated with the CBCL at age 2 years.

Twenty-eight children (30%) had borderline/clinical findings on the CBCL, with 27% scoring borderline/clinical for Externalizing Problems. In the multivariable model, lower Bayley-III motor scores and discharge home with mother with safety plan were associated with borderline/clinical Externalizing Problems. Medication treatment for neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) was associated with normal Externalizing Problems scores. Treatment with clonidine or phenobarbital was associated with scores in the normal range in all broadband CBCL measures.

Specific factors are associated with behavioral and emotional challenges measured by borderline/clinical CBCL scores among opioid-exposed children.