If you go to a medical provider for pain relief options, something they may prescribe is an opioid. In short-term situations and for people who need low doses, there isn't much of a risk. However, for longer-term pain relief, there is a high risk of addiction, even when the drugs are taken as directed.
Opioid abuse is a significant problem in the United States. In 2017, 955 overdose deaths involved opioids in this state, which is something that should be concerning to everyone who works and lives in Connecticut.
Medical providers wrote around 48 prescriptions for every 100 people in the state, which is actually lower than the national average of 58.7 per 100 people nationally.
Why does this matter? People become addicted. When people become addicted and opioids are no longer prescribed, they may turn to street drugs or illegal marketplaces to get their medications. They may doctor shop or start participating in drug-seeking behaviors.
Addiction is a disease, and it needs to be treated like one. As someone who is struggling with dependency or addiction, you may have tried to stop in the past. You might be doing what you need to do to get pain relief in the midst of a situation where providers are no longer prescribing opioids as frequently.
If you are caught buying illegal opioid medications without a prescription, you could face legal repercussions. It's important that you understand that getting opioids without a prescription is not legal and can land you in jail with heavy fines. If you are arrested, your attorney will work hard to help you seek alternative penalties, such as substance abuse therapy, so that you can get back to your life and minimize the impact of your arrest.
