ICD-10-CM code is F10.929.
Diagnostic Features
The essential feature of alcohol intoxication is the presence of  clinically significant problematic
behavioral or psychological chan ges (e.g., inappropriate sexual  or aggressive behavior, mood
lability, impaired judgment, impaired social or occupational functioning) that develop during,
or shortly after, alcohol ingestion (Criterion B). These changes are accompanied by evidence of
impaired functioning and ju dgment and, if intoxication is inte nse, can result in a life-threaten-
ing coma. The symptoms must not be attributable  to another medical co ndition (e.g., diabetic
ketoacidosis), are not a reflection  of conditions such as delirium,  and are not related to intoxi-
cation with other depressant drugs (e.g., benzodiazepines) (Crite rion D). The levels of incoor-
dination can interfere with driving abilities and performance of usual activities to the point of
causing accidents. Evidence of alcohol use can be  obtained by smelling alcohol on the individ-
ual’s breath, eliciting a history from the indivi dual or another observer, and, when needed,
having the individual provide breath, blood , or urine samples for toxicology analyses.
Associated Features Supporting Diagnosis
Alcohol intoxication is sometimes associated with amnesia for the events that occurred
during the course of the intoxication (“bl ackouts”). This phenomenon may be related to
the presence of a high blood alcohol level an d, perhaps, to the rapidity with which this
level is reached. During even mild alcohol in toxication, different symptoms are likely to be