Iris Mini: CAGE-AID Substance Abuse Screening Tool

The CAGE-AID screening tool was adapted from the CAGE alcohol assessment tool to include questions about drug use. The target population for the CAGE-AID is both adults and adolescents and can be administered by patient interview or self-report. These tools are not used to diagnose diseases, but only to indicate whether a problem might exist.

When thinking about drug use, include illegal drug use and the use of prescription drugs other than as prescribed:

  • Have you ever felt the need to cut down on your drinking or drug use?

  • Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking or drug use?

  • Have you ever felt guilty about drinking or drug use?

  • Have you ever felt you needed a drink or used drugs first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (Eye Opener)?

Scoring: A "yes" answer to one item indicates a possible substance use disorder and a need for further testing.

Brown RL, Leonard T, Saunders LA, Papasouliotis O. (1998) The prevalence and detection of substance use disorder among inpatients ages 18 to 49: an opportunity for prevention. Preventive Medicine.