Episode of harmful use of nicotine

**Definition:** An episode of nicotine use that has caused damage to a person’s physical or mental health. Harm to health of the individual occurs due to one or more of the following: (1) direct or secondary toxic effects on body organs and systems; or (2) a harmful route of administration. This diagnosis should not be made if the harm is attributed to a known pattern of nicotine use.

**Exclusions:** - Harmful effects of or exposure to noxious substances, chiefly nonmedicinal as to source, not elsewhere classified - Nicotine dependence - Harmful pattern of use of nicotine