Could Prescription Drugs Result in Drug Charges?

 Posted on August 27, 2018 in Drug Charges

Studies show that an estimated 54 million people have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons. Additionally, 2.1 million people in the United States have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons just within the last year. Because of this high abuse and potential for dependency, the state of Illinois is strict when it comes to drug laws and charges.

When most think of drug charges, they might think of illegal drugs, including cocaine, heroin, etc. While those drugs also can result in criminal charges, they are not the only type. Prescription drugs can result in criminaldrug charges, as well.

Prescription Drugs and Drug Charges

There are more arrestsoccurring in Illinois for the use of prescription drugs without a valid prescription than there have been in the past. This is due in part to the addictive nature of some prescription drugs.

Prescription drug abusers often start off as legitimate prescription holders. They are injured, or otherwise prescribed pain medication or other narcotics. Through continuous use of the prescription, they become addicted and are unable to stop using, even when their prescription is no longer valid. As such, an individual might turn to illegal means to obtain the drug.

A person can be arrested and face drug charges for the possession of even one pill without a prescription. Common types of prescription drugs that are abused include Xanax, Ketamine, OxyContin, and Vicodin. The severity of the drug charge depends on the type of drug and the amount in possession.

Illinois classifies drugs into schedules. Prescription drugs fall into the range of Schedule II, Schedule III, and Schedule IV drugs. Schedule IV drugs are considered the lesser in severity of the charges.

The following are examples of prescription drugs in each schedule:

• Schedule II: morphine, opium, amphetamines. These drugs are considered the most serious prescription drugs. While they have medical benefits and uses, they are highly addictive.
• Schedule III: ketamine, anabolic steroids, codeine, and hydrocodone combinations.
• Schedule IV: methadone, PCP, Ritalin.

Reach Out to Us Today for Help

A drug charge can be either a felony or a misdemeanor in Illinois. The amount of prescription drug at issue, and the type of prescription drug, all play a role in determining what charge will be brought. Both felonies and misdemeanors can bring about devastating results. As such, you need a dedicated defense attorney on your side.

Experienced Rolling Meadows criminal defense attorney Christopher M. Cosley is here for you. Attorney Cosley does not want your life derailed because of one prescription drug chargeand he will work diligently to provide you the best defense given the circumstances of the case. Contact us today for a consultation.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=1941&ChapterID=53

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/what-scope-prescription-drug-misuse