For many people, the possession and use of prescription medication are legal. When a doctor recognizes that you need a controlled substance to treat a serious medical issue, they can prescribe you a drug that you otherwise could not legally access. You can then consume that medication in accordance with the doctor’s directions without fear of arrest.
Although prescription medications are legal when used appropriately, they can also lead to drug charges for the person using them if they mistreat the medication or violate state laws. What are some of the common scenarios where prescription medication leads to criminal charges in Texas?
Drugged driving scenarios
A broad range of prescription medications ranging from psychiatric drugs to anti-seizure medication can negatively affect driving performance. Typically, doctors will warn people about the impact the medication may have on their driving skills.
The prescription vials and paperwork provided by the pharmacy will also usually warn of the consequences. If someone has a controlled substance in their bloodstream and drives poorly as a result, police officers may arrest them.
Doctor shopping cases
You may have chronic pain and a tolerance for medication, but your doctor doesn’t want to increase the dosage they prescribe or the number of pills you receive. You may feel like you have no choice but to look for another physician.
Some people will see multiple doctors, possibly even paying out of pocket so that insurance doesn’t discover their behavior. They will then ask these doctors to write them prescriptions for the same medications. If you get caught seeking the same drugs from multiple different doctors, you could find yourself face in criminal charges as a result.
Black market transactions
Even if you have a prescription, it is not legal for you to source your medication from anyone other than a licensed medical professional. Just because your neighbor has a prescription for the same medication does not make it legal for you to buy from them or for them to transfer that medication to you. If you get caught in the act or in possession of someone else’s prescription, Texas police officers may arrest you.
Understanding how prescription medications might lead to Texas drug charges can help you avoid potentially criminal mistakes.