Sedatv/hyp/anxiolytc dependence w anxiety disorder

This code signifies a patient's physiological and psychological dependence on sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics, where this substance use directly causes or exacerbates an anxiety disorder. The anxiety symptoms are a direct consequence of the substance's effects, withdrawal, or intoxication.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of dependence on sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics, and a co-occurring anxiety disorder is explicitly linked as substance-induced. This is appropriate for patients experiencing anxiety symptoms (e.g., panic attacks, generalized anxiety) that are determined by the clinician to be a direct result of their sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use.

• Ensure the medical record explicitly states the anxiety disorder is "substance-induced" and directly related to the sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic dependence.
• Do not use this code if the anxiety disorder predates the substance use or is considered an independent mental health condition.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when the substance-induced anxiety is the main reason for the encounter, followed by codes for specific anxiety symptoms if documented.