Poisoning by emollient cathartics

This code signifies an adverse health event resulting from the ingestion or exposure to emollient cathartics, such as mineral oil or docusate sodium, in toxic amounts. It indicates a poisoning rather than a therapeutic effect, leading to symptoms like severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, electrolyte imbalance, or aspiration pneumonitis. The poisoning can be accidental or intentional.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a patient has experienced poisoning due to an emollient cathartic. This includes cases of overdose, misuse, or adverse reactions to these specific laxatives. Supporting documentation should detail the substance involved, the circumstances of the poisoning, and the resulting clinical manifestations.

• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Do not confuse this with adverse effects of properly administered therapeutic doses, which would typically be coded differently.
• Ensure documentation specifies "emollient cathartic" to differentiate from other types of laxatives or cathartics.