Mental and Behavioural Disorders Due to Other Stimulants Including Caffeine (F15)
DSM-5-TR: Stimulant Use Disorder (Amphetamine-Type)
ICD-10-AM and DSM-5-TR may classify conditions differently. Refer to APA and WHO for complete diagnostic criteria.
Key Facts
ICD-10 Range
F10-F19
Subcodes
5 subcodes
Australian Prevalence
Methamphetamine use affects approximately 1.3% of Australians in the past year (AIHW 2022-23). Methamphetamine (ice) is a major public health concern, particularly in regional and remote communities.
Global Prevalence
Approximately 27 million people use amphetamine-type stimulants worldwide. Methamphetamine is the most widely produced and used synthetic drug globally.
Duration Requirement
Dependence syndrome (F15.2): 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 amphetamines, methamphetamine (ice), MDMA (ecstasy), and caffeine. Methamphetamine is a particularly significant public health concern in Australia due to its high potency and associated psychosis risk.
Diagnostic Criteria (ICD-10)
Core Features
- Strong desire or compulsion to use stimulants
- Difficulty controlling stimulant use in terms of onset, termination, or amount
- Withdrawal symptoms (dysphoria, fatigue, hypersomnia, increased appetite) on cessation
- Evidence of tolerance to stimulant effects
- Progressive neglect of alternative pleasures or interests
- Persistent use despite clear evidence of harmful consequences
Duration
Dependence syndrome (F15.2): three or more features present simultaneously for at least one month, or repeatedly within a 12-month period
Exclusion Criteria
- Prescribed amphetamine-type medications (e.g., dexamphetamine for ADHD) without features of misuse
ICD-10-AM Subcodes
| Code | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| F15.0 | Acute intoxication | |
| F15.1 | Harmful use | |
| F15.2 | Dependence syndrome | |
| F15.3 | Withdrawal state | |
| F15.5 | Psychotic disorder |
Classification Boundaries
Includes
- Amphetamine dependence
- Methamphetamine use disorder
- MDMA harmful use
- Caffeine intoxication
Australian Clinical Context
Methamphetamine (ice) is a major public health concern in Australia, particularly in regional and remote communities. The National Methamphetamine Strategy coordinates Australia-wide responses. Stimulant-induced psychosis is a common ED presentation. The National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program (NWDMP) tracks usage patterns nationally.
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.
| 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 |
Clinical Psychologist
Registered Psychologist
Occupational Therapist
Social Worker
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.
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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
Methamphetamine-induced psychosis may persist for weeks after cessation and can be difficult to distinguish from primary psychosis. Long-term methamphetamine use is associated with structural brain changes, cognitive impairment, and dental erosion ("meth mouth"). No approved pharmacotherapy — psychosocial interventions (Matrix Model) are first-line.
Related Diagnostic Codes
ICD-10-AM diagnostic codes commonly associated with the Mental and Behavioural Disorders Due to Other Stimulants Including Caffeine (F15).
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- World Health Organization. ICD-10-AM.
- American Psychiatric Association. DSM-5-TR. 2022.
- AIHW. National Drug Strategy Household Survey.
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