Which instrument assesses cocaine dependence and withdrawal?

The Cocaine Severity Scale (CSSA) is designed specifically to assess the degree of cocaine dependence and the severity of withdrawal symptoms associated with cocaine use. It provides a structured and comprehensive evaluation of an individual's pattern of cocaine use, including the impact it has on their daily functioning and the consequences they face as a result of their dependency.

Cocaine dependence is characterized by a range of physiological and psychological symptoms, including cravings, loss of control over use, and withdrawal effects such as fatigue, increased appetite, and depression when not using the substance. The CSSA effectively captures these elements, making it a valuable tool in both clinical settings for diagnosis and in monitoring the progress of treatment.

In contrast, the CIWA-Ar is used for assessing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, the SOWS focuses on opiate withdrawal symptoms, and the CAGE is a quick screening tool for identifying potential alcohol use problems. Therefore, while the other assessments target different substances or specific aspects of dependency, the CSSA is tailored to address the unique characteristics of cocaine dependency and withdrawal symptoms.