Prescription medications are controlled substances. Doctors have to prescribe them to individuals based on their medical symptoms. Patients have to obtain the medication from a licensed provider and use it in accordance with their doctor’s instructions.
It is quite common for people to assume that anything they do with prescription medication is legal. However, the reality is that many people prosecuted for drug crimes get arrested for prescription medications, rather than prohibited substances such as methamphetamine.
There are numerous ways for people to put themselves at legal risk with prescription medications. What behaviors might lead to legal exposure for those with prescription drugs?
Driving after taking medication
Medications may come with warning labels. They may advise people not to take the medication while drinking alcohol or to avoid operating heavy machinery while under the influence of the medication. Drugs that may cause drowsiness or that have warning labels advising against driving or using machinery are likely not safe to use before operating a motor vehicle. Even with a valid prescription, people may be at risk of impaired driving charges if they take medications that could affect their ability to control a vehicle.
Sharing medication with others
Maybe a coworker previously had the same prescription, but their doctor refused to refill their prescription. An individual with leftover medication might share it with someone they know is in need. Some people even agree to sell leftover medication to others to recoup what they paid at the pharmacy. Unfortunately, the act of transferring prescription drugs to other people is a crime even if the drug is not particularly dangerous. Only licensed medical professionals can dispense prescription drugs to others. People risk prosecution if they get caught in the act or if the recipient of the medication breaks the law and gets arrested.
Avoiding the pharmacy
Many prescription medications are quite costly, and health insurance policies do not necessarily cover the full cost of those drugs. Sometimes, patients try to limit their expenses by purchasing medication from unregulated suppliers. They put themselves at risk of receiving the wrong medication, counterfeit drugs or contaminated medication. Their actions also violate the law and open them up to criminal prosecution.
Individuals facing drug charges related to prescription medications may need help protecting themselves, and that’s okay. Fighting back against drug charges often requires careful preparation and the support of someone who understands the criminal justice system.