ABSTRACT

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are abused substances similar to cannabis (marijuana). These products are psychoactive herbal blends coated with different SC drugs. The chronic use of SCs causes addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and psychiatric symptoms, which are similar to cannabis. Different brands comprise different SCs with different amounts; therefore, it is difficult to presume the clinical effects of these illegal products. It is important for pediatricians, especially neonatologists, because of its increasing use among adolescents in the past few years; it will not be surprising to experience more and more exposed neonates and neonatal abstinence syndrome in the near future. Here we present a neonate who was exposed to SCs, which is marketed as “bonsai” in Turkey, during the whole pregnancy. We aim to warn physicians regarding the withdrawal symptoms of SCs.

Keywords: Synthetic cannabinoid, bonsai, neonatal abstinence syndrome