The majority of people are aware that possessing or selling illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin comes with severe consequences. However, selling or distributing prescription medications can also come with stiff fines, time in jail and a lifetime criminal record. Even possessing one of these substances without a valid prescription can get someone in trouble.
Here are a couple of ways that someone can get in trouble with prescription drugs in Georgia.
Through possession without a prescription
Prescription medications can be extremely helpful and even life-saving for people who take them under the supervision of a medical professional. However, some people develop a dependency on certain substances, such as Xanax, and may attempt to acquire them through means other than obtaining a prescription from a doctor.
One way that people might do this is by forging the script to get the prescription. This comes with heavy consequences in Georgia, including a fine of up to $50,000.
Through distribution to other people
People who do have a legitimate prescription can also get in trouble if they give their medication to someone else. The reasoning behind this includes the belief that only a qualified medical professional can know whether or not someone can safely take a certain prescription drug.
Many people believe that prescription drugs are safer than their illegal counterparts. However, some prescription medications can still be very addictive. In addition, some can be very dangerous when combined with other prescription drugs or substances like alcohol. People can avoid the activities listed above to help avoid a drug charge.