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DAST-10 Drug Abuse Screening Test

Screen for drug-related problems over the last 12 months with the 10-item DAST.

By Dr Amer Sheikh, GP Updated 17 October 2026 Clinical review pending

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DAST-10 scoring

ScoreLevel and action
0No problems reported
1–2Low level: monitor
3–5Moderate: brief intervention, consider referral
6–8Substantial: refer for assessment
9–10Severe: refer to specialist services

The DAST-10 does not cover alcohol. Use AUDIT-C or AUDIT alongside it.

Frequently asked questions

What is a high DAST-10 score?

6 or more suggests a substantial or severe level of problems.

Does DAST-10 include alcohol?

No. Screen alcohol separately with AUDIT-C.

What time period does DAST-10 cover?

The last 12 months.

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References

  1. Skinner HA. The Drug Abuse Screening Test. Addict Behav 1982;7(4):363–71.

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