DSM-IV Criteria for Opioid Withdrawal

DSM-IV Criteria for Opioid Withdrawal

A. Either of the following:

1. cessation of (or reduction in) opioid use that has been heavy and prolonged (several weeks or longer)

2. administration of an opioid antagonist after a period of opioid use

B. Three (or more) of the following, developing within minutes to several days after Criterion A:

1. dysphoric mood
2. nausea or vomiting
3. muscle aches
4. lacrimation or rhinorrhea
5. pupillary dilation, piloerection, or sweating
6. diarrhea
7. yawning
8. fever
9. insomnia

C. The symptoms in Criterion B cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

D. The symptoms are not due to a general medical condition and are not better accounted for by another mental disorder.