ICD-11

Disorders due to use of stimulants including amphetamines, methamphetamine or methcathinone are characterised by the pattern and consequences of use of these substances. There is a wide array of naturally occurring and synthetically produced psychostimulants other than cocaine. The most numerous of this group are the amphetamine-type substances, including methamphetamine. Prescribed stimulants including dexamphetamine are indicated for a limited number of conditions such as for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Methcathinone, known in many countries as ephedrone, is a synthetic potent stimulant that is a structural analogue of methamphetamine and is related to cathinone. All these drugs have primarily psychostimulant properties and are also vasoconstrictors to a varying degree. They induce euphoria and hyperactivity as may be seen in Stimulant Intoxication. They have potent dependence-producing properties, which may lead to the diagnosis of Stimulant Dependence and Stimulant Withdrawal following the cessation of use. Several Stimulant-Induced Mental Disorders are described.

An episode of use of a stimulant including amphetamines, methamphetamine and methcathinone 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. Harm to health of the individual occurs due to one or more of the following: (1) behaviour related to intoxication; (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 due to stimulant intoxication on the part of the person to whom the diagnosis of single episode of harmful use applies. This diagnosis should not be made if the harm is attributed to a known pattern of stimulant including amphetamines, methamphetamine and methcathinone use.