Harmful pattern of use of sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics

**Definition:** A pattern of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use that has caused clinically significant harm to a person’s physical or mental health or in which behaviour induced by sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics has caused clinically significant harm to the health of other people. The pattern of sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use is evident over a period of at least 12 months if use is episodic and at least one month if use is continuous (i.e., daily or almost daily). Harm may be caused by the intoxicating effects of sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics, the direct or secondary toxic effects on body organs and systems, or a harmful route of administration.

**Exclusions:** - Sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic dependence - Episode of harmful use of sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics