The penalty for sharing prescription drugs

Prescription medications are a super important part of the modern healthcare system. Their existence offers targeted treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. The misuse and distribution of these drugs may well lead to severe legal and health consequences. For example, sharing drugs of this nature (common though it may be) without being clued up on their potency or effects can lead to numerous unwanted ramifications.

Legality of prescription drugs in the UK

In the United Kingdom, prescription drugs are classified under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which categorises drugs into three classes: A, B, and C.

This classification represents the legal penalties and consequences for illegal distribution and possession. Sharing prescription drugs without the proper permit is absolutely illegal. The penalties include:

1. Possession with intent to supply: If an individual is found in possession of prescription drugs that are not prescribed to them, with evidence suggesting intent to supply them to others, they can face severe penalties. For Class A drugs (e.g., methadone, morphine), this could mean up to life imprisonment. For Class B and C drugs, the penalties include up to 14 years and 5 years in prison, respectively, along with an unlimited fine.
2. Possession of controlled drugs: Simply possessing a controlled drug without a prescription can lead to penalties ranging from a formal warning to imprisonment and a fine, depending on the drug’s classification.
3. Fraud and misrepresentation: Obtaining a prescription drug by lying or misrepresentation is a criminal offence and can result in imprisonment or fines.

Internationally…

In the United States, sharing prescription medications is also illegal and is subject to federal and state laws. The Controlled Substances Act classifies drugs into schedules, and penalties for distribution can range from fines to lengthy prison sentences, especially for drugs in Schedules I and II.

Countries such as Australia and Canada also impose strict penalties for the unauthorised distribution of prescription medications. Sharing prescription medications without proper authority is illegal and punishable by law in basically every Western country.

Health risks of sharing prescription drugs

Sharing prescription drugs poses significant health risks to both the giver and the receiver. Each prescription is tailored to an individual’s specific health condition, dosage requirements, and medical history. When medications are shared, the following risks can present themselves:

1. Negative reactions: Different individuals may react differently to the same medication. Sharing drugs can lead to unexpected side effects, allergic reactions, or worsening of that individual’s condition.
2. Incorrect dosage: Prescription medications are prescribed at specific doses based on a patient’s medical condition and history. Taking an incorrect dosage can lead to overdose, underdose, or drug toxicity, all of which can be harmful or even fatal.
3. Drug interactions: Prescription medications can interact with other drugs, supplements, or alcohol. A person taking someone else’s prescription drug may unknowingly experience dangerous interactions.
4. Delay in proper treatment: Relying on shared medications will inevitably delay the appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment. Ultimately, this may prolong the very health issue or complication that the individual was trying to self-medicate in the first place.

Cultural example

One grave health risk of sharing prescription drugs is the potential for fatal overdose due to taking an incorrect dosage or experiencing unforeseen drug interactions. The movie Requiem for a Dream (2000) depicts a prominent example of this risk.

In the film, the character Sara Goldfar becomes addicted to amphetamine-based diet pills that are prescribed to her by a doctor. The pills are intended to help her lose weight for an upcoming television appearance. However, her increasing dependence on the medication leads her to take higher doses than prescribed.

Sara’s misuse of prescription medication leads to hallucinations, paranoia, and a severe mental breakdown, ultimately resulting in her being admitted to a psychiatric hospital. While this example focuses on misuse rather than sharing, it highlights the danger of using prescription drugs outside of their intended and medically supervised context.

Why do people share prescription drugs?

Understanding why people share prescription drugs can help in addressing the root causes of this dangerous practice. Common reasons include:

1. Cost concerns: Prescription medications can be expensive, and individuals without insurance coverage may share medications to avoid costs.
2. Perceived harmlessness: Many people believe that if a medication is safe for one person, it is safe for another, underestimating the potential risks involved.
3. Self-medication: Some individuals self-diagnose and use medications prescribed to others as a form of self-treatment without consulting healthcare professionals.
4. Pressure from peers or family: People may feel pressured to share their medications with friends or family members who are in pain or distress.

What do I do if I’ve shared or taken shared medication?

If you’ve shared or taken medication, you must take the appropriate steps to offset potential grave consequences:

1. Consult a healthcare professional: Seek medical advice to assess any potential health risks or adverse effects. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on the next steps, including appropriate treatment or testing if necessary.
2. Stop using immediately: Cease using any medication that was not prescribed to you and avoid sharing your own prescriptions in the future.
3. Monitor for side effects: If you have taken shared medication, monitor for any side effects or health changes and report them.

Seeking help for prescription drug addiction

Sharing and misusing prescription drugs can sometimes be indicative of a larger issue, such as prescription drug addiction. Recognising the symptoms and seeking help is vital for recovery. Symptoms of prescription drug addiction may include:

• An intense desire or urge to use the medication.
• Larger doses are needed to achieve the same effect.
• Experiencing physical or psychological withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug.
• Failing to meet work, social, or family obligations due to drug use.

Treatment

Treatment options may include:

• Medically supervised withdrawal (detox) from the drug.
• Dialectical-behavioural therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic approaches to address underlying issues and behavioural changes.
• Peer support groups provide a community for sharing experiences and encouragement.
• Strategies and education to prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety.

Seeking professional help from UKAT can guide individuals through recovery and help them reclaim control.

Ultimately, sharing prescription drugs is a dangerous practice with severe legal and health implications. Understanding the legality of it all, recognising the health risks, and acknowledging the reasons behind this behaviour are the first steps towards avoidance. Responsible drug management is really important for maintaining physical, mental and spiritual health and safety.