A recommendation from a doctor generally makes the possession and use of a prescription drug legal. Even with a valid prescription, it is still potentially possible to break the law with controlled substances.
People can face charges for medication they assume they can use and possess legally. The three mistakes below can lead to drug charges.
1. Driving while taking medication
Numerous types of drugs that can affect the ability to drive. Drugs that cause drowsiness, that affect cognition and that impact motor function can all diminish driving capabilities. People who take these drugs could be at risk of impaired driving charges, even if they insist they have acclimated to the impact of the medication and experience no impairment.
2. Buying on the unregulated market
Patients typically need to fill their prescriptions at licensed pharmacies. There are some people who offer medication for sale secretly, often at the rate that seems more affordable than the copay for a name-brand medication or the market price for certain drugs. Purchasing from an unlicensed provider puts people at risk of requiring contaminated or expired medication, and it also exposes them to the possibility of criminal prosecution.
3. Sharing medication with others
Selling medication outright to another person or giving them medication because they cannot afford it and the patient with the prescription does not need it are both criminal acts. There does not need to be any financial gain for the transfer of medication to constitute a crime.
Anyone facing drug charges may need support to minimize the impact their pending criminal charges may have on their future. Working with a criminal defense attorney can help defendants understand their rights and explore different possible defense strategies.