Alcohol dependence
Definition
Alcohol dependence is a disorder of regulation of alcohol use arising from repeated or continuous use of alcohol. The characteristic feature is a strong internal drive to use alcohol, which is manifested by impaired ability to control use, increasing priority given to use over other activities and persistence of use despite harm or negative consequences. These experiences are often accompanied by a subjective sensation of urge or craving to use alcohol. Physiological features of dependence may also be present, including tolerance to the effects of alcohol, withdrawal symptoms following cessation or reduction in use of alcohol, or repeated use of alcohol or pharmacologically similar substances to prevent or alleviate withdrawal symptoms. The features of dependence are usually evident over a period of at least 12 months but the diagnosis may be made if alcohol use is continuous (daily or almost daily) for at least 3 months.
Inclusions
- Chronic alcoholism
- Dipsomania
Exclusions
- Episode of harmful use of alcohol
(6C40.0) - Harmful pattern of use of alcohol
(6C40.1)
6 subordinate codes
6C40.20Alcohol dependence, current use, continuous6C40.21Alcohol dependence, current use, episodic6C40.22Alcohol dependence, early full remission6C40.23Alcohol dependence, sustained partial remission6C40.24Alcohol dependence, sustained full remission4B4ZDiseases of the immune system, unspecified
Nearby in Disorders due to use of alcohol
6C40.0Episode of harmful use of alcohol6C40.1Harmful pattern of use of alcohol6C40.3Alcohol intoxication6C40.4Alcohol withdrawal6C40.5Alcohol-induced delirium6C40.6Alcohol-induced psychotic disorder6C40.7Certain specified alcohol-induced mental or behavioural disorders4B4YOther specified diseases of the immune system