Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale

The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is a tool used by healthcare professionals to assess the severity of withdrawal symptoms in individuals who are dependent on opioids. It measures factors such as anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, and gastrointestinal issues, assigning scores to each symptom. The total score helps determine the level of withdrawal an individual is experiencing, which guides treatment decisions. COWS is commonly used to ensure patients receive appropriate care during detoxification and to monitor their progress in recovery.