Poisoning by tricyclic antidepressants, self-harm, init

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse effects from an overdose of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), where the intent was to harm oneself. The patient is in the acute phase of treatment for this poisoning.

Apply this code when documenting a patient admitted to the emergency department or inpatient setting due to a deliberate overdose of a TCA, such as amitriptyline or imipramine, with suicidal intent. This is appropriate for the initial encounter where diagnosis and active treatment of the poisoning are occurring.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific tricyclic antidepressant if known (e.g., T43.011- for amitriptyline).
• Do not use this code for accidental poisonings or adverse effects from therapeutic use; different intent codes apply.
• Ensure the "A" for initial encounter is appropriate; subsequent encounters for sequelae or follow-up will use different seventh characters.