Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic abuse, in remission

This code signifies a patient's history of problematic use of sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics, where the full diagnostic criteria for abuse have not been met for at least 12 months. Despite the absence of current abuse, the individual may still experience cravings or be vulnerable to relapse. It indicates a period of sustained remission from active substance abuse.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a past diagnosis of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic abuse, and the patient has maintained a period of abstinence or controlled use for at least one year. This is often used in follow-up appointments for patients in recovery or for historical documentation of a substance use disorder that is no longer active.

• Always ensure documentation specifies "in remission" and the type of substance (sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic).
• Do not use for current abuse or dependence; those require active substance use disorder codes.
• Sequence as a secondary diagnosis if the current encounter is for a related physical or mental health condition.