There are significant developmental differences in physiology and pharmacology in neonates that make the conduct of a safe anesthetic much more challenging in a neonate.ObjectivesComplete a focused review of the current knowledge of the physiological and pharmacologic differences seen in newborns that impact the safe administration of anesthesia.MethodsA selective review of literature in developmental changes in physiology and pharmacology was completed.ResultsThis knowledge acquired in the review was used to establish common principles for the safe administration of anesthesia to newborn patients.ConclusionIn spite of the persistence of large gaps in our knowledge in this physiology and pharmacology, common modern anesthetic management principles for neonatal surgery have significantly improved clinical outcomes.