People from all backgrounds may end up with a substance abuse disorder that drives their drug use. Some of these individuals, including professionals trying to avoid criminal prosecution, might turn to prescription medication instead of banned substances. A common example involves using opioid medication instead of heroin to achieve relatively similar physical effects.
Contrary to popular belief among many people who misuse prescription medication, the possibility of securing a prescription does not make the abuse of prescription medication any less illegal. Any use or possession of a controlled substance, like narcotic painkillers, without the direct supervision of a medical professional can result in someone’s arrest and prosecution.
Providing medication to others
Anyone with more prescription medication than they intend to use should find a safe way to dispose of the remaining medication. Many medical offices and police departments offer safe medication disposal options to prevent those unused pills from making their way onto the unregulated market. Anyone who sells or gives their medication to someone else could end up prosecuted for the act of transferring that medication. They could also face charges if the recipient overdoses or causes the death of another person while under the influence of that medication in some cases.
Using medication without a prescription
Just because someone could possess oxycodone after breaking their legs does not mean it is legal to possess and use the medication after the doctor ends their prescription. Anyone using medication after their doctor ends their prescription, taking a dose beyond what the doctor recommends or otherwise using the medication without medical instruction to do so could potentially face prosecution should they get caught.
Driving while on medication
Many different drugs will affect someone’s ability to drive. Pain relievers, muscle relaxants and sleep aids all have a strong association with increased crash risk. So do certain kinds of psychiatric medications and anti-epilepsy drugs. Patients should always abide by the restrictions on prescription vials advising them not to drive or use heavy machinery, as they could face prosecution if they get arrested while driving after taking their legal prescription medication.
Understanding how seemingly minor mistakes can lead to Georgia drug charges may help people more to safely and responsibly use prescription medication.