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.

Synthetic cathinone-induced delirium is characterised by an acute state of disturbed attention and awareness with specific features of delirium that develops during or soon after substance intoxication or withdrawal or during the use of synthetic cathinones. The amount and duration of synthetic cathinone use must be capable of producing delirium. The symptoms are not better explained by a primary mental disorder, by use of or withdrawal from a different substance, or by another health condition that is not classified under Mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders.