Opioids are a class of drugs that bind to receptors in the brain and body to reduce pain. They are present in prescription medications like oxycodone and illegal drugs like heroin. Addiction and abuse can develop quickly, even when a patient has a valid prescription.
Using opioids comes with serious risks, including addiction. If you are convicted of a drug crime related to opioids, you could go to jail and face heavy fines. An attorney can help you understand your charges and find ways to lessen their impact on your life.
Our Los Angeles drug crimes lawyers have decades of combined legal experience. We help people who have been accused of a criminal offense find a path forward. Call today to schedule your free case evaluation and tell us what happened.
What Are Opioids For?
Doctors prescribe opioids like OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, and morphine to manage moderate to severe pain. Fentanyl is another opioid that is often given as a patch or lozenge for pain from cancer or after surgery.
Codeine is a milder opioid, usually found in prescription cough syrups and some pain relievers. Tramadol is another common option, sometimes said to be less addictive than other opioids, though this is still debated.
Methadone is used to treat pain and to help people with opioid addiction. Buprenorphine is also used in addiction treatment. These medications can be addictive, even when taken as directed.
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What Is the Difference Between Opioids and Opiates?
Opiates are naturally derived from the opium poppy plant. Morphine and codeine are opiates. They have been used in medicine for centuries and remain in use today.
Opioids are the broader term. It includes opiates as well as synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs made in a laboratory.
In legal and medical contexts, the terms are often used interchangeably. Both types bind to the same receptors in the brain, and both carry the same risks of addiction, overdose, and death.
How Do Opioids Affect You?
Opioids change how pain signals are sent in the nervous system. They also increase dopamine in the brain, which can make someone feel relief or even euphoria. Because of these effects, they can be very effective for pain relief, but they also come with a risk of addiction.
Over time, the brain adjusts to the presence of opioids. That means you will need more of the drug to get the same effect. This is called tolerance, and it is one of the first steps toward physical dependence.
Opioids also slow breathing. At high doses, they can cause breathing to stop entirely. This is the mechanism behind most opioid overdose deaths, including those involving prescription medications. Opioid addiction has become a major issue in recent times.
Are Opioids Illegal in California?
It depends on the circumstances. In California, it is usually illegal to have opioids without a valid prescription. You can lawfully obtain and use some opioids if a licensed healthcare provider prescribes them and you follow their instructions.
Heroin is a Schedule I controlled substance with no accepted medical use. Possessing or selling heroin is illegal in California under any circumstances. Possessing Fentanyl without a prescription is also a criminal offense.
In recent years, California has focused on treatment instead of jail time for some drug possession offenses. However, charges related to opioids are still serious. If you are convicted, you will face serious consequences.
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What Are the Penalties for Opioid Possession?
Simple possession of a prescription opioid without a valid prescription is a misdemeanor in California. A conviction can result in up to one year in county jail and fines. First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs that allow them to avoid a conviction by completing drug treatment.
Heroin possession is a misdemeanor under Proposition 47 for personal-use amounts, but prosecutors can pursue felony charges in cases involving larger quantities.
Possession with intent to sell is a felony that carries a state prison sentence of two to four years. Penalties increase significantly when sales, distribution, or manufacturing are involved. A criminal defense attorney can review the charges against you and identify any defenses that may apply to your case.
Get Help With Your Opioid Drug Charges
Opioids are a type of medication that attach to receptors in the brain and body to alleviate pain. While they have legitimate medical issues, opioid addiction is very serious. You can also face severe criminal consequences for drug-related offenses.
Opioid charges in California carry major penalties. A conviction can mean jail or prison time, heavy fines, probation, and a criminal record that follows you for years. If you are facing charges, reach out to our legal team for help as soon as possible.
Our attorneys at Simmrin Law Group have served thousands of clients who were facing criminal charges in California. Everyone makes mistakes. We can help you move forward. Call today to schedule your free case evaluation so that we can get started on your case.
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