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For teaching purposes, each of the following drugs and their
effects have been dealt with separately. Substance users, however, may combine drugs
and/or use drugs and alcohol together. They may also dose themselves with their drug(s) of
choice before coming to the hospital, especially if they expect an extended stay. |
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There is a continuum of effects that needs to be addressed.
This module presents the possible effects of drug use in utero. It is necessary to
stress to participants that individuals will vary in their presentation of effects and
that some effects do not present until the developmental stage that is impacted has been
reached. |
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The study of perinatal substance exposure other than alcohol
is relatively "young" and does not provide adequate information regarding the
long term effects on adolescents and adults. Longitudinal studies are now being done,
primarily on the long term effects of cocaine. More are needed addressing not only cocaine
but other commonly ingested substances as well as polydrug use. |
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All substance use when pregnant potentially affects the
mother, the developing fetus, the course of the pregnancy, labor and delivery, and has
postpartum effects for both mother and neonate. However, different substances have
different effects within those categories. |
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There is no safe time to use a substance when pregnant and
there is no safe amount of substance that can be used when pregnant. Likewise, it is never
too late to stop use of a substance when pregnant. However, rapid cessation of
addicting agents can lead to withdrawal and possible fetal demise. |
University of Nevada, Reno
