Opiate withdrawal scales were developed to examine the patient’s physical dependence and physiological readiness prior to methadone or buprenorphine induction, and to compare treatments for withdrawal (Wesson and Ling, 2003). The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS; Wesson and Ling, 2003) is a common measure used to assess withdrawal in clinical trials and practice, and consists of 11 observed (clinician-rated) and subjective (patient-rated) items. The COWS has been used to assess withdrawal in buprenorphine/naloxone vs. (Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence)