Abuse of herbal or folk remedies
ICD-10 F55.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abuse of herbal or folk remedies.
F55.1 refers to the abuse of herbal or folk remedies, which can manifest in various ways, including the misuse of these substances for self-medication or as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Patients may turn to herbal remedies in an attempt to manage conditions such as eating disorders, sleep disorders, sexual dysfunction, or behavioral syndromes. The abuse of these remedies can lead to adverse health effects, including toxicity, drug interactions, and exacerbation of underlying conditions. For instance, individuals with eating disorders may misuse herbal supplements in an attempt to control weight, while those with sleep disorders might rely on herbal sedatives that can disrupt normal sleep patterns. Sexual dysfunction may also be addressed through unregulated herbal products, which can lead to psychological dependence. Behavioral syndromes, such as anxiety or depression, may be treated with folk remedies that lack scientific validation, potentially delaying appropriate medical intervention. Clinicians must be aware of the potential for abuse and the need for comprehensive assessments to ensure safe and effective treatment plans.
Detailed patient history including substance use, mental health assessments, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with anxiety or depression who self-medicate with herbal remedies.
Consideration of potential interactions with prescribed psychiatric medications.
Comprehensive dietary assessments and documentation of herbal supplement use.
Patients with eating disorders using herbal products for weight control.
Monitoring for nutritional deficiencies and educating patients on safe supplement use.
Used when evaluating a patient for herbal remedy abuse.
Document the patient's history, current medications, and any herbal remedies used.
Psychiatric evaluations may require additional documentation of mental health history.
Abuse of herbal remedies occurs when individuals use these products inappropriately, often in excessive amounts or without medical supervision, leading to adverse health effects.
