Unfortunately, stimulant drugs like Ritalin and Adderall are often sold illegally to people who either want to experience a stimulating high or believe these drugs will help them perform better at school or work. Stimulants are most commonly abused among teens and college students, mainly because most believe stimulants are “smart drugs.” However, getting caught with unprescribed Adderall can have severe legal penalties.
Is Adderall Illegal in the U.S.?
Adderall (amphetamine) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that’s prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For people with ADHD, Adderall improves concentration and focus while controlling impulsivity and behavioral problems. This medication may also be used to help people with narcolepsy stay awake during the day.
Adderall is not illegal when used with a prescription; however, Adderall is illegal when someone uses it without a prescription, uses it after a prescription has expired, or attempts to sell their prescription to someone else. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies Adderall as a Schedule II drug, meaning that while it has medical uses, it also has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
Adderall is highly addictive when abused. This includes taking it without a prescription, taking higher doses of it than prescribed, mixing it with other substances, and crushing pills to snort them or take them in ways they aren’t designed for. Adderall has gained popularity in high schools, colleges, and workplaces for its supposed cognitive-enhancing benefits, making it a common drug of abuse.
Distribution and possession of Adderall without a prescription, as well as using the drug in higher doses than prescribed by a doctor, are criminal offenses. Specific charges of possessing and selling Adderall vary depending on the state the person is in and the amount of the drug they have on them at the time of their arrest. Even so, Adderall possession without a valid prescription is illegal in all states.
Consequences of Getting Caught With Unprescribed Adderall
As we mentioned, selling Adderall punishments or charges vary depending on the state the person lives in. Considering we are a drug and alcohol treatment center in Palm Beach, we can get into detail about the charges for selling Adderall without a prescription in Florida.
Possession of Adderall without a prescription is a third-degree felony in Florida. Maximum Adderall possession charges are 5 years in the Department of Corrections along with a fine of up to $5,000. Individuals who obtain the drug illegally usually have pills without the original bottle they come in. If they get pulled over or caught and can’t produce a valid prescription, the officer arrests the individual for possession of a controlled substance without a prescription.
However, if the prosecution proves that the individual intended to distribute or sell Adderall without a prescription, the charges change. The charges for selling Adderall without a prescription may be a second or first-degree felony, depending on how much of the drug the person had with them when they were arrested.
Second-degree felonies in Florida can come with up to 15 years of prison time and/or up to $10,000 fines. First-degree felonies in Florida can come with a 3-year prison sentence and a maximum of $10,000 fines.
In addition to possessing or selling unprescribed Adderall, you can also get charged and fined for getting caught high on Adderall. It’s unlawful to use Adderall without a prescription or medical purpose. For instance, in the state of Colorado, the illegal use of controlled substances like Adderall is a level 2 misdemeanor, with penalties like prison time and a $750 fine.
These penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the situation. For example, someone on probation who tests positive for an amphetamine in a randomized drug test may have additional legal and financial penalties.
Side Effects of Unprescribed Adderall
Aside from the legal troubles that come with the use, possession, and selling of Adderall without a prescription, taking unprescribed Adderall can also have repercussions on the body. Doses and frequency of use of prescription medications depending on the patient’s needs and health condition.
Doctors base their decisions to prescribe certain medications on various factors and often after extensive testing and questioning. For this reason, taking a drug that’s meant to be prescribed without the direction of a healthcare professional increases the likelihood of various dangers.
Side effects of unprescribed Adderall may include:
- Skin disorders
- Allergic reaction
- Vitamin deficiency
- Convulsions
- Malnutrition
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Mood swings
- Decreased sex drive
- Behavioral changes
- Relationship problems
Adderall crashes, or the depression that hits after an Adderall high wears off, can also lead to mental illness and worsen existing mental health disorders. The abuse of stimulants like Adderall can also lead to addiction, a danger that’s often averted when the drug is only taken as prescribed.
Stimulant addiction usually requires medically monitored detox and care at a rehabilitation center to help the individual safely withdraw from the drug physically and psychologically. Addiction can take over a person’s life if help is not available.
Fortunately, it is at BHOPB. We offer addiction treatment programs in Palm Beach, FL, for both illicit and prescription drug addictions as well as alcoholism. Our specialists work to create a treatment plan that suits the client’s needs and experiences with drugs and alcohol.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse, don’t wait until it’s too late to reach out for help. Call Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches today at 561-220-3981 to learn more about our PHP and inpatient addiction treatment in Lake Worth.
Source:
- The Wiseman Law Firm – Is It Illegal To Give Someone Adderall?
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