The Dangers of Prescription Drugs: Prescription Drugs That Can Get You Arrested for DUI

In recent years, the use of prescription drugs to get high has become more and more common in the United States, thanks to their widespread availability and easy access through local pharmacies.

However, many people do not realize that these drugs can also be highly dangerous to your health and even lead to extreme DUI cases if you drive while under the influence. This article lists some of the most commonly used prescription drugs that can get you arrested for DUI.

What Drugs Can Get You Arrested?

This is a very difficult question to answer. It really depends on the drug, how you use it, and the context in which you are using it.

Some examples of drugs that cause a person to become impaired and potentially lead to an arrest for driving under the influence include amphetamines (including Adderall) and benzodiazepines (including Xanax).

We’ll talk more about these drugs below.

1. Adderall

Have you just taken Adderall and decided to drive to the nearby store to get some essentials? Before you do that, think carefully. Yes, you may feel alert after taking this prescription drug, but you may not like the consequences.

Adderall is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance that can make you dizzy, nervous, and sleepy, which could lead to an accident. Other side effects include dry mouth, stomach upset, insomnia, and appetite loss-side effects that could lead to risky behavior behind the wheel, like swerving or speeding.

With the side effects of taking Adderall, you could get pulled over by the police and be arrested for DUI if found that you're on this medication.  But the good news is that Adderall has a half-life (the time required for one-half of a given amount to disappear) of about 9 to 14 hours after ingestion until no detectable levels are left in your system.

Again, do not get behind the wheel if you take this drug. Remember, feeling tired or being unable to concentrate could lead to accidents.

2. Ambien

People take Ambien to help them fall asleep and stay asleep for long, but too much of this prescription drug can make you unconscious or cause dizziness and hallucinations.

What’s alarming is that people nowadays combine alcohol with this prescription drug to create the zombie effect, causing them to be very confused, sleepy, and slow-moving.

If you take online DUI classes, you should know that when you take Ambien, it can be dangerous to drive. The effects of Ambien can last up to 12 hours, meaning you can fall into a deep slumber at any time after intake. And falling asleep while behind the wheel is extremely dangerous. That explains why one can get arrested for DUI when taking Ambien.

3. Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)

Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever derived from the opium poppy. It is prescribed to those who suffer from chronic pain. Oxycodone is a Schedule II prescription drug under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

This powerful drug can produce intense feelings of euphoria and relaxation, which can lead to dependence when taken over long periods without medical supervision. When someone is addicted to oxycodone, they will experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking it because their brain has become used to having it in its system.

The withdrawal symptoms usually include anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches and pains or spasms, insomnia or trouble sleeping, nausea, and diarrhea or vomiting.

According to California's Vehicle Code Section 23152(f) VC, any drug that can make you drowsy and affect your ability to drive, like Oxycodone, can be the basis for the prosecution to file charges and convict you of DUI.

4. Xanax

In Florida, if you are impaired by a prescription drug like Xanax and get behind the wheel, you can be arrested for DUI. So, think twice if you're considering taking this prescription drug before going out. The consequences can be serious.

People who mix alcohol with this type of prescription drug typically have slower reaction times and higher blood alcohol levels when they are tested than those who do not mix them. These side effects may contribute to an increased risk of car accidents because these people may drive more aggressively while trying to recover from their drunkenness.

5. Vicodin

Back then, people were using Vicodin to get high. This is because the drug has a great deal of both narcotic and opioid properties and is likewise a fast-acting drug.

When taken as prescribed, it only lasts about 4 hours in the system before dissipating completely.  But still, traces of the drug can be detected in the body for up to four days.

When taken by someone who intends to abuse it, this means that they can take another pill before the effects have worn off, doubling their high and increasing the likelihood of overdose significantly.

Vicodin can be deadly even when taken as prescribed and especially when mixed with alcohol or other drugs. A single dose can lead to respiratory depression, resulting in accidental death if not treated immediately at a hospital or urgent care center.

6. Clarinex and Allergy Medications

Clarinex is an allergy medication, and drivers under the effects of this prescription drug can face DUI charges. As an antihistamine, it counteracts the effects of the chemical histamine, which is known to trigger allergy symptoms.

This medication comes with significant side effects, including drowsiness. And those who take it and then drive may feel too tired, making it difficult to focus and be attentive.

Key Takeaways

If you're taking any of these prescriptions, be sure not to drive or operate heavy machinery right away. An interlock installation and a breathalyzer can still detect them. Keep in mind the longer it's been since the medication was taken, the less risk there is of impairment.

It is never okay to drink alcohol while taking prescription drugs; alcohol affects the liver, which will then affect how your body processes both substances together. The combination can lead to an increase in fatigue, nausea, and dizziness.

Drive Safe and Avoid These Prescription Drugs!

Drivers under the influence of prescription drugs are no different than those who have consumed alcohol or used illicit drugs. Not only do they put their own lives and the lives of others at risk, but they can also face serious legal consequences for driving under the influence (DUI).

This article has discussed some of the most dangerous drugs that could lead to an arrest for DUI and how you can stay safe when using them. If you ever get arrested for driving under the influence of these prescription drugs, contact experienced and professional DUI lawyers to be properly represented, avoid going to jail, and not lose your license for a long time.

Author Bio:

Victoria Brown currently works as the Marketing and Communications Specialist at Law Offices of Brian D. Sloan. Her experiences with DUI cases in the past have inspired her to spread awareness about DUI laws in the United States.