What penalties may arise from the illegal use of prescription drugs?

The illegal use of prescription drugs can lead to serious penalties, which typically include imprisonment and fines. This treatment of illegal drug use reflects the potential for significant harm that misusing prescription substances can cause.

Imprisonment serves as a deterrent to discourage individuals from engaging in illegal drug use and recognizes the severity of the offense within the legal system. It also acknowledges the public health risks associated with the misuse of controlled substances, which can lead to addiction, health crises, and broader social issues. Fines also act as a financial penalty, reinforcing the legal consequences of such actions and contributing to the resources used in drug enforcement and rehabilitation programs.