Cannabis dependence w psychotic disorder with hallucinations

This code signifies a severe pattern of cannabis use characterized by impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological criteria (tolerance or withdrawal), co-occurring with a psychotic disorder where hallucinations are a prominent feature. The psychotic symptoms are directly attributable to the physiological effects of cannabis.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of cannabis dependence and a concurrent psychotic disorder with hallucinations, and a causal link between cannabis use and the psychotic symptoms is established. This typically requires a psychiatric evaluation confirming both conditions and their relationship.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "dependence" and not just "abuse" or "use."
• Verify that hallucinations are specifically mentioned as part of the psychotic disorder.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity impacting treatment.