Facing accusations of trafficking prescription drugs is a daunting experience with severe legal consequences and potential damage to your reputation. Regarding prescription medication, you cannot legally take medication not subscribed to you, nor can you share or sell your prescriptions with others.
When it comes to narcotic substances, you face higher penalties.
Opioids
As of 2020-2021, over 6% of Americans had at least one opioid prescription. While popularly prescribed for pain, medicines like oxycodone and hydrocodone have a high risk of addiction and misuse. Nowadays, the U.S. faces an opioid epidemic, with fentanyl being among one of the most dangerous and highly sought-after street drugs. Its popularity and associated dangers can cause law enforcement to be more diligent and strict.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are another narcotic medication often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. Xanax and Valium are among the two most commonly trafficked, hence subject to a lot of legal scrutiny. Sharing or selling narcotics can result in illegal distribution or possession with intent to sell charges.
Stimulant medications
Patients with conditions like ADHD may require stimulant medications like Adderall. However, those who take stimulants without a prescription can face criminal drug charges, regardless of the reason for taking the medication.
Sedatives and Hypnotics
Sedatives and hypnotics, including medications like Ambien and Lunesta, can help those who suffer from insomnia. However, they can also lead to addiction. If a person stops taking their insomnia medication or suffers a loss of insurance coverage, they may seek it elsewhere.
When it comes to drug trafficking, law enforcement officials tend to focus on the most dangerous, addictive and common prescription drugs on the street.