It’s a scenario that plays out all too often: a loved one becomes addicted to opioids, and you provide them with the drugs they need to keep them from suffering. You might think that you’re doing the right thing, but in reality, you could be putting your career at risk.
If you are a physician or pharmacist, it is illegal to provide someone with opioids who is not authorized to receive them. What are the consequences of illegally providing someone with prescription narcotics?
The professional risks of providing opioids to someone who is addicted
It can be challenging to identify an opioid addiction because it often starts with a legitimate medical need for pain relief. However, certain warning signs may indicate a person is developing an addiction. These include increasing the amount of medication they take, seeking out multiple doctors for prescriptions, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking opioids.
Providing opioids illegally to someone is a serious criminal offense that can result in imprisonment, fines, or both. Individuals found guilty of this offense may also have their license to practice pharmacy or medicine revoked. Not only is this illegal, but it is also unethical.
If you are a physician or pharmacist and have been charged with illegally providing opiates, it is crucial to seek counsel immediately to review the charges against you and advise you of your best legal options. In some cases, it may be possible to have the charges reduced or dismissed altogether. In other cases, it may be necessary to go to trial to defend yourself.
Regardless of the circumstances, it is essential to have representation to protect your rights.