Drug Abuse Through the Internet

One of the many issues that have been discussed in the War on Prescription Drugs is the availability of them through the Internet. There are too many websites where there is no requirement for a doctor’s prescription or approval to be able to receive drugs that under any other circumstances would require a prescription; however on the Internet the only thing needed are a credit card and an address. Internet pharmacies are a growing problem in the U.S.

Getting Drugs through the Internet

The ability to be able to get drugs through the Internet is alarming! In many cases, the individual clicks on a website or responds to an email advertising prescription drugs and they fill out an order. Some companies have a phone or chat representative contact the customer and they ask a few questions. These companies do not contact a prescribing professional, nor do they address the possibility that the individual placing the order may be addicted to the drug or want to sell the drug to someone else.

Working to Stop Internet Pharmacies

Recently, the U.S. federal government, as well as many States, has begun passing laws that would make it more difficult to gain access to prescription drugs. In this respect, Internet drug abuse has taken some measures to avoid the consequences by enlisting the services of a physician to write prescriptions for their records, but again, the doctor does not interact with the individual ordering the drugs. There is no consultation, no physical exam; simply a signature for the record.

Location of Internet Pharmacies

The location of Internet Pharmacies is clandestine. The telephone number that is given is generally a toll free U.S. telephone number such as an 800 exchange. The actual location from which the drugs will be shipped may be in Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico or some other country.

The Cost of Internet Pharmacies

Medications from these types of Internet pharmacies are quite costly. Depending on the prescription drug ordered, it could be as high as $20 per pill. Most of these companies do not take insurance. Although prescription painkillers seem to be the most expensive, the availability and the cost of other drugs such as sedatives, stimulants and hypnotics can be pricey as well compared to U.S. based pharmacies.

The Problem with Internet Pharmacies

Internet Pharmacies are a problem because they will sell drugs to anyone with an address and a credit card. This means that children and teens can place an order online; individuals with co-occurring illnesses including mental illness and individuals with the intent to sell them on the streets.

Another important to consider is the fact that there is no regulation on the medications that are sold through Internet Pharmacies. No safety regulations put in place to ensure the quality of the drug being sold or the safety of the product.

Lastly, it is illegal to order prescription drugs without a prescription. The law in the U.S. is very clear on this issue. If you are taking a prescription, the bottle has to have your name on it. There have been several high profile cases (Rush Limbaugh for one), involving Internet Pharmacies.