It is sometimes difficult to sort out symptoms – is it the influenza (flu), or is it opiate withdrawal? The Clinic Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is used as an assessment tool to distinguish true withdrawal symptoms. The outcome result will indicate whether you may need to increase your dose. Listen to this support group as they discuss their experiences.

Discussion Guide:

Are you familiar with The Clinic Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS)?

How can you tell the difference of opiate withdrawal and being medically ill with a flu?

Describe an example of being medically sick with a flu and the experience of withdrawal while in active addiction.

Has your dose of Methadone or Suboxone fluctuated up and down over time?

Have you been able to easily articulate the reasons why you might need to increase your dose?

Supplemental Reading:

Wesson and Ling, Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale, http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/files/ClinicalOpiateWithdrawalScale.pdf