Adverse effect of antirheumatics, NEC, subs

This code signifies an adverse reaction or complication arising from the therapeutic use of an antirheumatic medication, not specifically categorized elsewhere, during a follow-up visit. The patient is experiencing a harmful or undesirable effect from the drug, rather than an intentional overdose or poisoning.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management or evaluation of an adverse effect from an antirheumatic drug, such as gastrointestinal upset, skin rash, or liver enzyme elevation, after the initial treatment of the adverse effect has begun. This is appropriate for subsequent encounters related to the adverse effect, not the initial presentation.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific adverse effect being treated.
• Ensure the documentation clearly indicates the encounter is for follow-up care of the adverse effect, not the initial treatment.
• Verify the medication involved is an antirheumatic and the reaction is not better classified by a more specific adverse effect code.