Sedatv/hyp/anxiolytc dependence w intoxication, unsp

This code signifies a patient's physiological and psychological reliance on sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics, accompanied by acute intoxication from these substances. The dependence indicates a pattern of compulsive use despite harmful consequences, while intoxication refers to the transient, substance-specific syndrome due to recent ingestion. The "unspecified" nature indicates that the specific intoxicating substance within this class is not documented.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic dependence and concurrently describes symptoms or signs of acute intoxication from one of these substance types. This applies when the specific drug (e.g., benzodiazepine, barbiturate) is not identified in the medical record. Supporting documentation would include clinical notes detailing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, tolerance, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, and current signs of acute impairment (e.g., slurred speech, ataxia, nystagmus).

• Ensure documentation explicitly links the intoxication to the dependence; otherwise, separate codes for intoxication and dependence may be required.
• Avoid this code if the specific sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic substance is identified; instead, use the more specific code from the F13.22 category.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity impacting treatment.