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It is illegal to sell your unused prescription drugs

When you're given prescription drugs by a doctor in Ottawa, you're typically told to use the entire amount that is prescribed. Often, you are even instructed to do so if your symptoms have gone away and you feel like you've recovered. However, there are situations in which you may stop taking the medication before it's entirely gone, leaving you with leftover pills and a clean bill of health.

Rather than throwing away an expensive medication, you may consider selling the drugs. You may not even think much of it, just figuring that you can help someone else who is dealing with similar health issues and make a little money on the side. Isn't that a win/win situation for both of you?

The reality, though, is that selling prescription drugs is illegal in Canada, as stipulated by the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Those who do not have prescriptions cannot lawfully obtain or possess these substances. Those who have them legally cannot distribute or sell them. Even if you think you're just doing something helpful for someone who needs it, you could inadvertently be breaking the law.

It's worth noting that you don't even have to sell the drugs to break this law. Just distributing the drugs for free can be a criminal offense.

As you can imagine, a misunderstanding and a simple mistake can easily lead to criminal charges if you didn't realize exactly what the law said before handing out or selling prescription drugs. If you're facing charges, you must know all of the various options that you have and what type of legal defense you can use in court as you present your case.

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