October 15, 2017
The epidemic of opiate abuse is rampant in the United States, and no corner of society has been left untouched. Opiate medications come in many different forms: codeine, fentanyl, hydrocodone, Norco, Vicodin, Lortab, Dilaudid, and Demerol are some of the most common. While many people are prescribed the medications after serious accidents or surgeries, the addiction and ongoing use of such medications often extend beyond the initial need.
Because of the highly addictive nature of the opiate base of these drugs, it is easy for anyone to become dependent. What doesn’t help is that recently doctors have also gotten caught up in over-prescribing the medications.
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, almost 1.3 million people were treated at hospitals for opiate-related issues in America in 2014.
- Nearly 80% of those people addicted to heroin started by using prescription drugs.
- The issues have increased six-fold between 2001 to 2014 according to JAMA Pediatrics.
- According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, drug overdoses are the leading cause of accidental death in the United States.
If you or someone you know has developed a dependence on opiate medications, it is important to get help right away.
Unauthorized Opiate Possession Can Result in Serious Criminal Penalties
Using opiate medication that was not prescribed to you is considered a felony. Contact one of our experienced attorneys if you have been caught with opiate medications that you were not prescribed as the first step to getting your legal issues resolved. Acting now to help yourself or someone you know could prevent ongoing opiate addiction and legal problems. Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have been accused of opiate abuse. If you have been accused or caught with opiate medication not prescribed to you, you will want the experienced and trusted attorneys of Khonsari Law Group to be on your side.
Call Us Today to Schedule a Consultation with a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer
Don’t put your future in jeopardy! Know your rights and protect yourself by contacting the Khonsari Law Group. Please contact our experienced attorneys at (727) 269-5300 for your free consultation. The Khonsari Law Group focuses on criminal matters and criminal defense and our lawyers are committed to bringing every case we handle to a successful resolution.