Pregnancy and opiates

Addiction to opiate substances is a common pathology that can be encountered in women during pregnancy. Like all drug addictions it is accompanied by psychiatric and somatic co-morbidities which complicate management and add to the risk associated with the use of substances for the mother and the unborn child. These risks which are numerous during pregnancy also persist at birth with the possible occurrence of a withdrawal syndrome which may be preceded by signs of impregnation. In France there are many specialised structures working in synergy to provide appropriate care for these patients. The pharmacist as a medical health professional has an important role and various missions to inform and accompany these women addicts towards treatment.