- F12
- Substance Use Disorders
Mental and Behavioural Disorders Due to Cannabinoid Use (F12)
DSM-5-TR: Cannabis Use Disorder
ICD-10-AM and DSM-5-TR may classify conditions differently. Refer to APA and WHO for complete diagnostic criteria.
Key Facts
- ICD-10 RangeF10-F19
- Subcodes5 subcodes
- Australian PrevalenceCannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance in Australia, with approximately 36% lifetime use. Approximately 2.6% of Australians meet criteria for cannabis use disorder (AIHW 2022-23).
- Global PrevalenceWHO estimates approximately 22 million people worldwide have cannabis use disorder. Cannabis use has increased globally with changing legal status in various jurisdictions.
- Duration RequirementDependence syndrome (F12.2): three or more features present simultaneously for at least one month, or repeatedly within a 12-month period
Overview
Covers disorders arising from the use of cannabis and cannabinoids, including THC-containing products. Presentations range from acute intoxication to dependence and cannabis-induced psychosis.
Diagnostic Criteria (ICD-10)
Core Features
- Strong desire or compulsion to use cannabis
- Difficulty controlling cannabis use in terms of onset, termination, or amount
- Physiological withdrawal symptoms on cessation (irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbance, appetite change)
- Evidence of tolerance to cannabis effects
- Progressive neglect of alternative pleasures or interests
- Persistent use despite clear evidence of harmful consequences
Duration Dependence syndrome (F12.2): three or more features present simultaneously for at least one month, or repeatedly within a 12-month period
Exclusion Criteria
- Medicinal cannabis use under medical supervision without features of misuse or dependence
ICD-10-AM Subcodes
| Code | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| F12.0 | Acute intoxication | Transient condition following cannabis use, characterised by euphoria, anxiety, perceptual disturbances, impaired coordination, and increased appetite. |
| F12.1 | Harmful use | Pattern of cannabis use causing damage to physical or mental health. |
| F12.2 | Dependence syndrome | A cluster of physiological, behavioural, and cognitive phenomena with strong desire to use cannabis, difficulty controlling use, and withdrawal on cessation. |
| F12.3 | Withdrawal state | Symptoms occurring on cessation of cannabis after prolonged use, including irritability, anxiety, insomnia, decreased appetite, and restlessness. |
| F12.5 | Psychotic disorder | Psychotic phenomena occurring during or after cannabis use, including cannabis-induced psychosis which may be a risk factor for schizophrenia. |
Classification Boundaries
Includes
- Cannabis dependence
- Cannabis harmful use
- Cannabis-induced psychosis
Australian Clinical Context
Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance in Australia (~36% lifetime use). Medicinal cannabis is accessible via the TGA Special Access Scheme and Authorised Prescriber pathway. Cannabis-induced psychosis is a recognised clinical entity and a common ED presentation, particularly in young males.
Medicare (MBS) Pathways
Better Access to Mental Health Care
The primary Medicare pathway for mental health treatment in Australia. Requires a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) referral. Available for any clinically diagnosed mental disorder.
10 individual + 10 group sessions per calendar year
| Provider Type | MBS Items | Session Type |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychologist | 80000–80025 | Psychological therapy (higher rebate) |
| Registered Psychologist | 80100–80123 | Focused psychological strategies |
| Occupational Therapist | 80125–80145 | Focused psychological strategies |
| Social Worker | 80150–80175 | Focused psychological strategies |
| Psychiatrist | 291, 296–299, 300–308 | Psychiatric consultation |
GP referral items: 2700, 2701, 2715, 2717
Eligibility: Any clinically diagnosed mental disorder as defined by WHO ICD-10 Chapter V. Requires a GP or psychiatrist referral.
Exclusions:
- Intellectual disability (use Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder pathway or specialist referral)
- Dementia and organic mental disorders (use specialist referral pathway)
- Tobacco use disorder
State and territory drug and alcohol services may also apply alongside MBS.
Grounded Scribe suggests the right MBS item codes from your recording so you can claim accurately without re-keying.
Reference information sourced from MBS Online (mbsonline.gov.au). Item availability, rebates, and eligibility criteria may change. This is not billing advice — always verify current items before claiming. Last verified: April 2026.
Clinical Documentation Notes
Cannabis withdrawal is now recognised in DSM-5-TR and ICD-10-AM. Document THC potency (high-potency products carry greater psychosis risk), frequency of use, age of onset, and any prior psychotic episodes. Distinguish cannabis-induced psychosis from primary psychotic disorders.
Related Diagnostic Codes
ICD-10-AM diagnostic codes commonly associated with the Mental and Behavioural Disorders Due to Cannabinoid Use (F12).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis withdrawal clinically significant?
Yes. Cannabis withdrawal syndrome is recognised in both ICD-10-AM (F12.3) and DSM-5-TR. Symptoms typically begin within 24–48 hours of cessation, peak around day 2–4, and resolve within 1–2 weeks. Common symptoms include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and appetite disturbance.
References
- World Health Organization. ICD-10-AM.
- American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5-TR. 2022.
- AIHW. National Drug Strategy Household Survey.
This tool calculates scores based on published guidelines for professional reference. It does not provide clinical diagnoses. Scores are provided as reference information only and should be interpreted by a qualified practitioner in the context of a comprehensive assessment.
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