What happens if you take someone else's prescription?

Though you may think it is "no big deal", the truth of the matter is, borrowing medication from a friend or family member could actually end in all of you facing serious consequences. To avoid these unnecessary criminal charges, it is important to understand laws that apply to how one can or cannot share their prescriptions.

Prescriptions and controlled substances

The Health and Safety Code of Texas discusses the potential for prescription drug charges in certain scenarios. Some types of prescription drugs, such as narcotic-based pain relievers, actually fall under the classification of a controlled substance. Without a valid prescription, it is possible to face possession charges if officers discover you with this kind of medication. Officers can charge a person for illegally obtaining prescription drugs, too. Fraud charges in this instance may vary from case to case. It can include using a misrepresented or fraudulent prescription to obtain the drugs, obtaining controlled substances when it is not medically necessary, or using the Schedule II medication prescribed to another person.

Potential penalties you face

The penalty for possession may have a harsher impact than you expect. You could face enormous fines and fees, but more importantly, you could even face time in jail. The court will often consider things like the amount of medication in your possession or the type of medication officers find you with.  Depending on these factors, they may go for a harsher or a lighter penalty. Needless to say, you want to avoid setting your life back in such a manner. This is why it is crucial to treat any charges of prescription drug possession as a serious risk to you.