Alcohol abuse with alcohol-induced anxiety disorder

This code signifies a pattern of problematic alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, specifically characterized by the presence of an alcohol-induced anxiety disorder. The anxiety symptoms are directly attributable to the physiological effects of alcohol intoxication or withdrawal, or develop during or soon after substance use. This diagnosis indicates that alcohol use is the primary etiology of the anxiety.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links a patient's anxiety disorder to their ongoing alcohol abuse. This typically occurs when anxiety symptoms emerge during or shortly after alcohol consumption, or during periods of withdrawal, and are not better explained by another primary anxiety disorder. Supporting documentation should include evidence of problematic alcohol use and a clinical assessment confirming the alcohol-induced nature of the anxiety.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states the anxiety is "alcohol-induced" or directly caused by alcohol use/withdrawal, not merely co-occurring.
• Do not use this code if the patient has a pre-existing anxiety disorder that is merely exacerbated by alcohol use; instead, code both conditions separately.
• This code requires a definitive diagnosis of alcohol abuse, not just occasional heavy drinking.