Free

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • January 17, 2017
  • May 28, 2026

Features

DIRE screenshot #1 for iPhone
DIRE screenshot #2 for iPhone
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About

This tool assists clinicians in evaluating the risk and potential success of prescribing opioids for chronic pain. It uses a scoring system based on seven factors to guide decision-making, but does not replace professional judgment.

Opioid prescribing risk assessment
Seven-factor scoring system
Chronic non-malignant pain focus
Decision-making aid for clinicians
Risk vs. success prediction
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What's New in DIRE

1.3

May 28, 2026

No change to functionality - new version to maintain App Store relevance

User reviews

Simple and to the point

Great app. Very useful .

Great tool

This is a great app. It's easy to use and intuitive. Really helps as a guideline when considering opioids. And it's the only tool that isn't a a self report questionnaire filled out by patients, so the kind of bias in that sort of tool just isn't there.

Easy to use opioid screening tool!

I have used the DIRE Score and taught about it for years. This app makes it simple, intuitive and lightening fast to calculate a score for patients you know. It is as handy as your phone. I love the red yellow and green buttons that, like traffic signals, guide the clinicians' go no-go decision about long-term prescribing.
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FAQ

What is the DIRE Score used for?

The DIRE Score is a tool designed to help clinicians make informed decisions when considering prescribing opioids for patients with chronic non-malignant pain. It assesses seven factors to predict the likelihood of success with opioid therapy.

How does the DIRE Score work?

The app guides clinicians to rate seven factors (Diagnosis, Intractability, Risk, and Efficacy) on a scale of 1 to 3. The total score ranges from 7 to 21, with lower scores indicating a higher risk and higher scores suggesting a greater likelihood of successful prescribing.

Does DIRE consider all medical risk factors for opioid prescribing?

No, the DIRE Score does not account for all medical risk factors such as comorbid conditions like COPD or sleep apnea, nor does it directly address active illicit drug use or aberrant behaviors. Clinicians must use their professional judgment.

Is DIRE a substitute for clinical judgment?

No, the app explicitly states it is not a substitute for sound clinical judgment. It is intended for informational use only and decisions about prescribing remain solely the responsibility of the licensed prescriber.

What devices is DIRE available on?

DIRE is supported on iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices. It was released on January 17, 2017, and its latest version is 1.2, last updated on March 31, 2022.

What is the age rating for DIRE?

DIRE has an age rating of 12+, indicating it is suitable for users aged 12 and older. This rating is based on its content and intended use within a medical context.

Does DIRE have ads?

DIRE does not contain advertisements. As a free application, it focuses on providing its clinical tool without interruption from promotional content.

What is the user rating for DIRE?

DIRE has a perfect rating of 5.0 stars, based on one user review. This indicates a highly positive reception from its initial users.