Harmful pattern of use of multiple specified psychoactive substances, continuous

Definition

A pattern of continuous (daily or almost daily) use of multiple specified psychoactive substances or medications that are not included in the other substance classes specifically identified under Disorders Due to Substance Use that has caused damage to a person’s physical or mental health or has resulted in behaviour leading to harm to the health of others. The pattern of continuous substance use is evident over a period of at least one month. Harm to health of the individual occurs due to one or more of the following: (1) behaviour related to multiple substance intoxication or psychoactive medication use; (2) direct or secondary toxic effects on body organs and systems; or (3) a harmful route of administration. Harm to health of others includes any form of physical harm, including trauma, or mental disorder that is directly attributable to behaviour related to multiple substance intoxication or psychoactive medication use on the part of the person to whom the diagnosis of Harmful pattern of multiple specified psychoactive substances applies.

Exclusions

• Episode of harmful use of multiple specified psychoactive substances
• Multiple specified psychoactive substances dependence

Index Terms