Adverse effect of centr-acting/adren-neurn-block agnt, init

This code signifies an undesirable or harmful reaction experienced by a patient due to the therapeutic use of medications that affect the central nervous system or block adrenergic neurons. These adverse effects are not due to overdose or poisoning, but rather an expected or unexpected side effect when the drug is administered correctly. This specific code is for the initial encounter for the adverse effect.

Apply this code when a patient presents with symptoms resulting from a prescribed centrally-acting drug (e.g., certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, stimulants) or an adrenergic-neuron-blocking agent (e.g., some antihypertensives), and the reaction is an adverse effect, not an overdose. This is used for the first time the patient is seen for this particular adverse reaction.

• Always sequence this code after the code(s) for the specific manifestation(s) of the adverse effect.
• Ensure the documentation clearly distinguishes an adverse effect from poisoning, underdosing, or toxic effect.
• Confirm the encounter is the initial presentation for the adverse effect to justify the "A" seventh character.