In simple words: This code indicates the use of inhalants like glue, gas, or aerosols, but the specific type or whether it's misuse or addiction isn't clear from the medical record.

Unspecified inhalant use refers to the continuous, repeated inhalation of vapors, usually from common legal products (aerosols, gases, and other products that contain hydrocarbons or volatile solvents), that reach the bloodstream quickly and cause significant psychoactive effects. Sometimes a single use can cause brain damage and even death.This code is used when the provider does not document the type or degree of inhalant use or whether abuse or dependence is involved.

Example 1: A 15-year-old patient is brought to the emergency room after being found unconscious with a chemical odor on their breath and an empty can of spray paint nearby. The provider suspects inhalant use but does not have enough information to specify the type or determine abuse/dependence, so F18.9 is used., A patient presents with slurred speech, dizziness, and lack of coordination. They admit to “huffing” something but don’t specify what substance was inhaled.Without more detail, the physician uses F18.9., During a routine check-up, a patient mentions experimenting with inhalants in the past but doesn't provide details about the specific substances or the frequency of use.In the absence of additional information, F18.9 is the most appropriate code.

Documentation should include evidence of inhalant use, such as symptoms, witness reports, or the presence of inhalant paraphernalia. If possible, the type of inhalant used and any associated complications should be noted. Details about the frequency, duration, and quantity of inhalant use, as well as any history of abuse or dependence, are important for accurate coding.

** It is crucial to distinguish between use, abuse, and dependence when coding for inhalant-related disorders. If abuse (F18.1-) or dependence (F18.2-) is documented, those codes should be used instead of F18.9.Always query the physician if documentation is unclear regarding the specific type of inhalant or the presence of abuse or dependence.