Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ)

AUDIT measures hazardous and harmful drinking patterns across consumption, consequences, and dependence symptoms. SADQ focuses specifically on dependence severity, with fewer items and greater emphasis on withdrawal and loss of control. Use AUDIT for screening general populations; use SADQ for assessing severity in individuals already identified as dependent.

SADQ scores have moderate-to-strong predictive validity for withdrawal severity, with higher scores indicating greater withdrawal risk. However, individual variation is substantial; clinical context, medical comorbidities, and liver function must also be considered when assessing withdrawal risk.

SADQ assesses baseline dependence severity at a single time point to inform treatment planning. CIWA-Ar is a protocol for monitoring acute withdrawal symptoms during detoxification and titrating medications. They serve different purposes and are often used together in medically managed withdrawal.

The SADQ relies on accurate self-report and insight into dependence symptoms. In individuals with significant cognitive impairment, mild dementia, or delirium, collateral information from family or medical records should supplement the SADQ score.

Readminister SADQ at baseline, at treatment milestones (e.g., completion of detoxification, transition to outpatient care), and during follow-up assessment. Frequency depends on treatment context; intensive programs may reassess weekly, while outpatient settings may reassess monthly or quarterly.

The SADQ was validated in mixed-gender samples and does not have gender-specific norms. Some evidence suggests women may report dependence symptoms at lower consumption levels; clinical judgment should inform interpretation in female patients.