The results of the observation were: in the early stage （<1 /2 month）

the tongue body was scarlet with white or yellow greasy coat with prickles

the body was bulky

with fissures. As the time of withdrawal went on

the ratio of scarlet

prickly tongue decreased

while that of bulky

fissured

and white greasy coat increased. Over 3 months after drug withdrawal

the ratio of all the above tongue pictures all tended to decrease

with an increase of pink tongue. By analysis of lingual picture

the main pathology was injury of yin by evil - heat and deficiencies of qi - blood

and damp filth and deficient spleen at the early stage: while at the intermediate stage

the main manifestations were yin - injury by fire - evil

damp - filth and deficient spleen: at the late stage

the main manifestations were damp-filth and deficient spleen and deficient blood and qi. Hence

the principles of strengthening the spleen and benefiting qi

protecting and nourishing the stomach yin should be persistently given during the whole therapeutic course. For different stages of withdrawal

different prescriptions should be accordingly administered.