Prescription Drugs
Prescription medications that have mind-altering (psychoactive) properties are sometimes abused. Prescription drugs are the most commonly abused substances (excluding marijuana and alcohol) by Americans, ages 14 and older.
| Drug | Time Period | Ages 12 or Older | Ages 12 to 17 | Ages 18 to 25 | Ages 26 or Older |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nonmedical Use of Prescription Drugs | Lifetime | 20.3% | 8.8% | 26.6% | 20.6% |
| Past Year | 5.8% | 5.8% | 12.2% | 4.8% | |
| Past Month | 2.5% | 2.2% | 4.8% | 2.1% |
Prescription Drugs in Florida
Several years ago, Florida was notorious for its “pill mills” throughout the state; people could easily obtain prescription painkillers such as oxycodone, often times without any real medical condition requiring a prescription, for no reason other than for their illicit personal use. As a result, a combination of Florida legislative action calling for policy change (prescription drug monitoring program), and increased aggressive effort from law enforcement, was implemented to deter those who abuse prescribed medication for personal use.
Some critics blame this Florida crackdown on prescription drug abuse for the difficulty in finding the much needed medication at pharmacies for those with legitimate medical conditions. Also of concern, more people are now being accused of prescription drug crimes often times without any evidence backing up these claims.
What Are Some commonly Abused Prescription Drugs?
There are many commonly abused prescription drugs including drugs taken to relieve pain (opioids), ADHD/narcolepsy medication (stimulants), and anxiety and sleep medication (CNS depressants).
Common opioids considered at risk of abuse may include:
- Duragesic®
- Vicodin®
- OxyContin®
- Opana®
- Darvon®
- Dilaudid®
- Demerol®
- Lomotil®
Common stimulants considered at risk of abuse may include:
- Dexedrine®
- Ritalin®
- Concerta®
- Adderall®
Common central nervous System depressants at risk of abuse include:
- Nembutal®
- Valium®
- Xanax®
Recently Charged With A Prescription Drug Crime?
If you have been charged with drug offenses involving prescription drugs such as prescription fraud, unlawful possession of prescription drugs, unlawful sale or distribution, prescription drug trafficking, prescription drug manufacturing, or prescription drug import or export; it is important that you obtain an experienced criminal defense attorney as a conviction of this type carries stiff penalties. Criminal offenses involving prescription drugs are serious charges that may be met with severe penalties under Florida and Federal law; depending on the type of drug and the amount seized, penalties will vary. More often than not, prescription drug crimes are felony charges.
Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Drug Crimes Attorney
Strategic Criminal Defense
Experienced defense lawyer Kenneth Padowitz, P.A. provides aggressive defense for prescription drug offenses and other serious charges. If you have been charged or you believe you may be charged sometime in the future, give us a call. Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer Kenneth Padowitz will provide you with aggressive representation.