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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG44.40

G44.40

Billable

Drug-induced headache, not elsewhere classified, not intractable

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 G44.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of drug-induced headache, not elsewhere classified, not intractable.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Drug-induced headaches are a type of headache disorder that occurs as a result of medication use. These headaches can be triggered by various substances, including over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and recreational drugs. The headaches may present as tension-type headaches or migraines, depending on the individual and the specific drug involved. Patients often report a history of frequent medication use, which can lead to a cycle of headache and medication overuse. The diagnosis of drug-induced headache requires a thorough patient history to identify the offending agent and to rule out other headache disorders. Treatment typically involves discontinuation of the offending medication and may include preventive measures to manage headache frequency and severity. It is essential for healthcare providers to educate patients about the risks of medication overuse and to explore alternative therapies for headache management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of medications that can induce headaches
  • Need for thorough patient history to identify triggers
  • Differentiation from other headache types
  • Potential for overlapping diagnoses

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of medication history
  • Failure to differentiate from other headache types
  • Lack of evidence for medication-induced headache diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding of headache types

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including medication use and headache characteristics.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic headaches and a history of medication overuse.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists should ensure that all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, are documented.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive review of patient medication lists and headache history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent headaches who may not have seen a specialist.

Billing Considerations

Primary care providers should be aware of the potential for medication overuse and educate patients accordingly.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G44.40 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G44
  • 40 should be used when the headache is directly linked to drug use and is not classified elsewhere
  • It is important to document the specific medications involved and the patient's history of use

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G44.40 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients with drug-induced headaches.

Documentation Requirements

Document patient history, medication review, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists may require more detailed documentation compared to primary care.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of headache types, including drug-induced headaches, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of headache types, including drug-induced headaches, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of headache types, including drug-induced headaches, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Headache Society

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Headache Society

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of medications can cause drug-induced headaches?

Common medications include analgesics, opioids, hormonal therapies, and certain antidepressants. Overuse of these medications can lead to chronic headache patterns.