Adverse effect of antipruritics, subsequent encounter

This code indicates a patient is experiencing an undesirable or harmful reaction to a medication specifically intended to relieve itching, and this reaction is being addressed during a follow-up visit. The adverse effect is not due to poisoning, underdosing, or an allergic reaction, but rather a known side effect or complication of the drug itself.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management or evaluation of an adverse effect from an antipruritic drug, and this is not their initial encounter for this specific issue. Examples include follow-up for persistent skin irritation, drowsiness, or gastrointestinal upset caused by an antipruritic.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific adverse effect (e.g., rash, nausea).
• Ensure the documentation clearly states the encounter is subsequent and links the adverse effect to an antipruritic.
• Do not use for initial encounters; a different 7th character would be appropriate for the initial treatment.