When used properly, prescription drugs are lawful property of the individual to whom they have been prescribed. Some of them can be very beneficial, such as powerful painkillers that are often used in medical settings. A person who has been given these medications likely does not have to worry about legal charges if they have a prescription from a doctor, they obtained the medication through a pharmacy, they are using it per doctor’s orders and it is not expired.
But it is important to note that many prescription medications are controlled substances. This means that there are some certain ways in which you could run into legal trouble if mistakes are made.
Sharing prescriptions
For example, it is illegal to share prescription medications. You cannot obtain them from someone else if you don’t have a prescription, and you cannot give them to someone else who doesn’t hold your prescription. Medication should never change hands. People who do this often say that their intentions were good and they were trying to be helpful. That may be true, but it is still a violation of the law to share these controlled substances.
Selling medications
Similarly, people sometimes try to sell medication that they haven’t used. It could be that the prescription medication was very expensive, and they’re just trying to recoup some of the costs. But this could technically constitute drug dealing, especially when selling opioids or other drugs that are often used recreationally.
Driving under the influence
Finally, it’s important for people who are taking prescription medications to know that some of them can inhibit motor skills and cognitive functions. It may be illegal to drive after taking them. An individual could be charged with driving under the influence, even if they haven’t been using alcohol or other illegal drugs. Just because a medication can legally be taken with a prescription doesn’t mean that a person should get behind the wheel when medicated.
What legal options do you have?
Are you facing serious drug charges for one of these reasons? It’s very natural to be concerned about your future and what this is going to mean for you. Be sure that you know about all of the legal defense options you have and the steps you’ll need to take moving forward. Seeking legal guidance is a good place to start.
