| Abstract: | ![]()
Diagnostic criteria for opioid dependence is presented. Five methods are described to assess the presence and/or severity of the opioid dependence syndrome: - 1 Self-report.
- 2 Physical examination
- 3 Toxicological analysis
- 4 Observation of withdrawal symptoms
- 5 Naloxone (Narcan) test.
Problems in determining actual amounts of heroin in “street deals’ is also discussed. It is emphasised that assessment of heroin-related problems in particular, requires a comprehensive lifestyle assessment in addition to the specific diagnosis of opioid dependence based largely on physical symptomatology as outlined in this paper. |
