Prescription drugs are legal drugs that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have approved for doctors to prescribe to patients in certain circumstances. For example, these types of drugs may cure an infection, control pain, or treat a chronic illness, and they help millions of people every day.
However, prescription drugs are also controlled substances, and it’s a violation of Virginia law to use prescription drugs in certain ways. 
Prescription Drug Abuse Is a Problem in Virginia
According to the Virginia Office of the Attorney General, some prescription drugs that are often abused include:
- Painkillers such as OxyContin, Percocet, and Demerol
- Depressants such as Valium, Xanax, and Ambien
- Stimulants such as Ritalin, Dexedrine, and Adderall
The Three Major Prescription Drug Crimes in Virginia
In Virginia, it is against the law to do any of the following with a prescription drug unless you are specifically authorized to do so by the government:
- Manufacture a prescription drug
- Sell, give away, or distribute a prescription drug
- Possess a prescription drug with the intent to manufacture, sell, give away, or distribute the drug
Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, and you may face significant fines and jail time. Relevant circumstances may include how the drug is classified according to the Virginia Drug Control Act, your age, the age of the other people involved in the incident, and other factors.
Get Help If You’ve Been Charged With a Crime
Don’t let the word “prescription” confuse you. Legally, a prescription drug can only be used by the person it was prescribed to. If you’ve been charged with a prescription drug crime, you need an experienced Virginia drug defense lawyer to help you.
The Law Firm of Kearney, Freeman, Fogarty & Joshi will review your case carefully and help you make informed decisions if you are facing prescription drug crime charges. To learn more about your defense, please contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.
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