ICD-11

Disorders due to use of synthetic cathinones are characterised by the pattern and consequences of synthetic cathinone use. Synthetic cathinones (also known as ‘bath salts’) are synthetic compounds with stimulant properties related to cathinone found in the khat plant, Catha edulis. The use of synthetic cathinones is common in young populations in many countries. They may produce a range of disorders including Synthetic Cathinone Intoxication, Synthetic Cathinone Dependence and Synthetic Cathinone Withdrawal. Several synthetic cathinone-induced mental disorders are recognised.

A pattern of use of synthetic cathinones 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 synthetic cathinone use is evident over a period of at least 12 months if substance use is episodic or at least one month if use is continuous (i.e., daily or almost daily). 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 related to synthetic cathinone intoxication on the part of the person to whom the diagnosis of Harmful pattern of use of synthetic cathinones applies.