F55: Abuse of non-psychoactive substances

F55 refers to Abuse of non-psychoactive substances, a group of mental or behavioral syndromes linked to physiological processes or conditions not directly caused by substances. These disorders range from eating and sleep disturbances to postpartum mental health issues and medically unexplained symptoms.

Symptoms

• Disordered eating habits – Present in anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder (F50)
• Insomnia or hypersomnia – Seen in F51 sleep disorders
• Low libido or sexual performance anxiety – Features of F52 sexual dysfunction
• Postpartum depression or psychosis – Found in F53 maternal mental disorders
• Worsening of medical conditions due to stress – Covered under F54
• Excessive use of laxatives or herbal remedies – Associated with F55
• General behavioral disturbance – Not otherwise specified in F59

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Abuse of non-psychoactive substances involves psychiatric evaluation, structured interviews, sleep studies (for F51), sexual health assessment, postpartum screening tools, and close review of medical history. Collaboration between medical and mental health providers is often required.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code F55 is used in psychiatry, gynecology, primary care, sleep medicine, and behavioral health settings. It supports diagnostic classification, therapy planning, interdisciplinary care coordination, and insurance documentation.

Related Codes

• F50 – Eating disorders
• F51 – Sleep disorders not due to a substance or known physiological condition
• F52 – Sexual dysfunction not due to a substance or known physiological condition
• F53 – Mental and behavioral disorders associated with the puerperium, not elsewhere classified
• F54 – Psychological and behavioral factors associated with disorders or diseases classified elsewhere
• F59 – Unspecified behavioral syndromes associated with physiological disturbances and physical factors

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code F55?
A: It documents Abuse of non-psychoactive substances, a behavioral or psychological syndrome linked to physiological states or life transitions, not caused by psychoactive substances.

Q2: Are these disorders medical or psychological?
A: They often involve both physical and psychological components, requiring holistic assessment and care.

Q3: How are these disorders treated?
A: CBT, psychoeducation, medication (e.g., antidepressants, sleep aids), lifestyle changes, and specialist referrals depending on the condition.

Q4: Are postpartum conditions temporary?
A: Many improve with treatment, but some may evolve into longer-term mood or anxiety disorders without early intervention.

Q5: Who provides care?
A: Multidisciplinary teams including psychiatrists, OB-GYNs, sleep specialists, therapists, and primary care providers.

Conclusion

ICD10 code F55 enables proper classification and treatment of Abuse of non-psychoactive substances, improving diagnosis accuracy, facilitating cross-specialty care, and ensuring appropriate mental health documentation within medical settings.