ICD-10 Code G44.4 – Drug-induced headache, not elsewhere classified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G44.4 – Drug-induced headache, not elsewhere classified
What it is
This code identifies headache caused by medication or another drug exposure, rather than a primary headache disorder. Use it when the record links the headache to a drug effect.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical notes describe headache beginning after drug use, worsening with continued exposure, or improving after the drug is stopped.
When to use this code
Use G44.4 when the clinician documents a headache as drug-induced, medication-related, or due to adverse drug effect. It may apply when the exact agent is known or when the record clearly connects the headache to drug exposure. Check documentation if the cause is uncertain.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for migraine, tension-type headache, or headache with no documented drug cause. If the headache is due to withdrawal, toxicity, or another specified condition, code the documented diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider wording linking the headache to a drug; without that connection, query or code the documented headache type.