Throughout the last couple of years, prescription drug abuse has risen to around 18 million people in the United States. Getting addicted to any drugs, whether it’s illicit or over the counter, can be detrimental to both your physical and mental well-being, elevating anxiety levels way beyond what’s healthy.
This becomes even more stressful when you’re faced with a drug-related charge. One of your first calls should undoubtedly be to an Attorney At Law.
What Does The Law Say?
Having prescription drugs in large quantities or without the necessary documentation, i.e., a valid prescription, in your possession is unlawful. Being charged with this offense can lead to a felony or misdemeanor.
The use of prescription drugs has become an epidemic in the States. Studies have shown that over 5% of American's abuse them. They change the way you think and can drastically alter your world perception.
Teenagers
This epidemic has also spread to the youth. Adolescents in America are under the misconception that abusing prescription drugs is safer than illegal ones. This misconception is utterly flawed, and the abuse of these substances can lead to severe side effects. From paranoia to seizures, these conditions could cause many health issues.
Once teenagers become addicted to narcotics, they become more susceptible to peer pressure, which might lead to the use of more potent substances, such as cocaine and heroin. It's a slippery slope that can lead to a life of addiction and exploitation.
When it comes to adolescents and the law regarding illicit substances, they risk a juvenile drug possession charge if caught with these narcotics. Penalties for this offense can range from probation to drug counseling. This can be quite a traumatic experience for youths and should be avoided at all costs.
Adults
Prescription overdoses are highest among the age group 25 to 50 years of age. These overdoses contribute to over 40% of opioid deaths in the United States. It's essential to keep an eye on changes in friends and family's behavior so that you can provide help as soon as possible.
Your choices are limited if you get caught with these substances, especially if they don’t belong to you. It could lead to years in jail and hundreds of thousands in fines and court costs. The penalties are heavier if you get caught with more than one type of substance.
Most adults who abuse medication lean more heavily towards painkillers and tranquilizers. This is likely because physicians prescribe these substances more than others as they treat a variety of conditions.
In Conclusion
Make sure you never share your prescription medication, even if it seems harmless. It could cause problems for you as well as those you share them with. Keep your medicine in its original containers and always dispose of it safely.
