Nicotine dependence unspecified, with withdrawal

This code signifies a patient's physiological and psychological dependence on nicotine, specifically when they are experiencing symptoms of withdrawal. The specific type of nicotine product (e.g., cigarettes, chewing tobacco) is not documented or is unknown. This indicates a significant addiction to nicotine, leading to adverse physical and mental effects upon cessation or reduction of use.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates nicotine dependence and the patient is actively presenting with withdrawal symptoms, but the specific form of nicotine is not specified. This is appropriate for patients undergoing detoxification, attempting to quit, or experiencing withdrawal due to involuntary cessation. Documentation should explicitly state "nicotine dependence with withdrawal" without further detail on the substance type.

• Do not use this code if the specific nicotine product is known; instead, use a more specific F17.2- code (e.g., F17.213 for cigarettes).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "with withdrawal" to support the 3rd character of '3'.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if the nicotine dependence and withdrawal are the main reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's an co-morbidity impacting treatment.