The SOWS612 is a self-administered scale for grading opioid withdrawal symptoms. It contains 16 symptoms, the intensity of which the patient rates on a scale of 0 (not at all) to 4 (extremely), and takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

Patient Instructions: Please score each of the 16 items below according to how you feel right now. Circle one number only.

Table 32. Subjective Opiate Withdrawal Scale

The above appendix was developed to support clinical practice using a different methodology from the process utilized for the main body of the guideline. 

The clinical guidance provided in the appendix has been derived through guideline committee consensus following iterative discussions in reference to existing evidence and national and international evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. 

The content presented in the appendix is also informed by the opinion of expert reviewers, personal communication with study authors, and a review of position papers and practice bulletins issued by recognized addiction medicine professional organizations and authorities. In addition, where appropriate, Health Canada-approved drug product monographs, and previous and current guidance from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (CPSBC) and Health Canada were consulted to ensure compliance with provincial and national safety regulations and standards for practice.