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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The Born Drug-Free Florida helpline number is merging with the Statewide Mental Health Access Line.
The new number for expectant mothers whose babies are at risk for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome is 1-800-945-1355.
"Born Drug-Free Florida" raises awareness about babies born exposed to prescription drugs and to educate mothers about discussing prescription drug use with their doctors.
Roughly 1,000 women have reached out to the hotline and approximately 200 expectant mothers have begun treatment since the program started.
Newborns exposed to prescription drugs while in the womb may suffer from NAS, a painful withdrawal from the drugs after birth. Approximately 7 out of every 1,000 Florida newborns born in 2011 were diagnosed with NAS. Symptoms include tremors, seizures, abdominal pain, incessant crying and rapid breathing.
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Online: www.BornDrugFreeFL.com.
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