Teens and Prescription Drug Abuse
A study conducted by the University of Michigan for the federal National Institute on Drug Abuse found that seven of the 10 drugs abused most by high school seniors are prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Many of these drugs were acquired by the teens’ friends or relatives, but some were purchased at local drug stores or pharmacies.
Clare Kavin, executive director of the Waismann Method, a drug treatment program, is not surprised by the study’s findings.
“Teens are under the impression that pills are the best way to treat any mental, physical, or social issues,” said Kavin. “They have been taught to take a pill to lose weight, to treat acne, to fall asleep, and to focus better in school.”
Oakland & Wayne County Criminal Defense Attorneys
Under Michigan law, it is a crime to use prescription or over-the-counter drugs for illegal purposes. This includes selling these types of drugs without a license, buying these drugs without a valid prescription, buying these drugs and manufacturing them into illegal drugs, using another person’s identity to obtain a prescription drug, and trying to buy multiple quantities of the same drug at different pharmacies or drug stores. It is also a crime to drive under the influence of a prescription or over-the-counter drug if the drug affects the driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle.
When to Call a Defense Lawyer
If your child has been arrested for the unlawful use or consumption of a prescription or over-the-counter drug, you should take a moment to consult a Michigan criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Freedman & Freedman. We have been practicing criminal defense since the early 1980s, and are very familiar with both state and federal drug crime laws and how they apply to minors. You can trust our dedicated legal team to work diligently on your son or daughter’s behalf, and do everything possible to get their charges reduced or thrown out completely.
For more information about our services, qualifications, and experience, please contact a skilled Michigan criminal defense lawyer at Freedman & Freedman today!