photo: ice.bluess

The internet is an extremely prevalent source of information and commerce in today’s society. Many People in Salt Lake City have prescriptions filled through online data entry.  However, if misused, online pharmacies can create huge penalties as the regulatory and enforcement issues cross state, federal, and international jurisdictional lines. Buying prescription drugs online is illegal when purchasing from a foreign pharmacy because the drugs are not FDA approved. Drugs purchases from international sources may or may not be penalized by the federal government, depending on the type, the level of previous scrutiny, and the extent of use of the foreign bought drug. Pain killers, tranquilizers and other prescription drugs that have a viable black market value are usually the most penalized.

Here is a list of areas the government has successfully prosecuted involving the use of online pharmacies:

• Sale/distribution/import of tainted or misbranded drugs
• Sale/distribution/import of a new drug not approved by the FDA
• Illegal promotion of a drug
• Sale/dispense of a prescription drug without a prescription
• Counterfeit drugs
• Purchase of prescription drugs in extensive amounts, and/or for sale

Such offenses can be penalized with large fines and jail or prison time. If you have been charged with illegal use of online pharmacies you should contact an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney to prepare yourself for future legal action.