Stimulant Misuse: Not Only Students Seeking A Cognitive Edge

It is no longer only high school and college students who struggle under the constantly increasing pressure to perform. Many professionals and members of the armed forces are also sleep-deprived, overwhelmed and struggling to hit their performance metrics.

Stimulants – Adderall and Concerta – for instance enhance the effects of chemicals already in your system such as norepinephrine and dopamine. The misuse of these drugs may help sustain productivity, but when used in combination with caffeine they can become dangerous. In its latest survey drug use, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration approximated that 1.7 million Americans misuse stimulants and the highest rate of misuse was in young adults.

Possession/sale of prescription medications

If law enforcement officers find these types of medications and you are unable to produce a valid prescription, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony depending on the quantity. Having more pills than common for personal use could even result in sale or trafficking charges.

There is no such thing as a “minor” drug charge either. Even a misdemeanor accusation can mar your previously spotless criminal record. A conviction could result in numerous collateral consequences:

• Loss of your federal financial aid, including work-study and perhaps some private scholarships
• Suspension or expulsion, depending on the discipline code of your institution
• Licensing limitations in certain occupations
• Difficulty securing credit or approval for housing

Each case is unique which requires a tailored defense strategy to protect your rights and keep out unlawfully obtained evidence. In addition, on a first offense, there might be programs available that keep an incident off your record.

DUI charges

In traffic stops, police look for any indication of impairment. Driving under the influence charges can be linked to Adderall use. Drunk driving checkpoints have also started to watch for prescription drugs impairment. It’s important to seek immediate advice if asked to take a blood test related to perceived impairment. Refusal can be a crime in itself.

From an arrest or investigation, it is crucial to move fast. There are options. A consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney is the best way to find out what they are and an investment in your future.