What is Methadone?
Methadone, also known by the brand name Dolophine, is a drug that, when properly prescribed, is used most commonly for helping those addicted to heroin and other narcotics deal with the symptoms of withdrawal. Methadone is also used for pain relief. It is a long lasting synthetic opioid, similar to morphine. While methadone does help combat addiction to opioids, it remains an addictive substance itself and dangerous and unhealthy to use without a doctor’s supervision.
Brand names for prescription drugs containing methadone include:
- Dolophine
- Symoron
- Amidone
- Methadose
- Physeptone
- Heptadon
Penalties for Methadone Possession and Related Charges
Like many other prescription drugs, methadone is a schedule II drugs according to the DEA under the Controlled Dangerous Substance Act. Schedule II is the classification for drugs that have:
- A high potential for abuse.
- A currently acceptable medical use in the United States, which in methadone’s case is pain relief and the treatment of opioid addiction.
- A potential for severe physical or psychological dependence.
Like other drug charges, methadone charges in NJ vary depending on the amount you are found in possession of. Since methadone is a prescription drug, charges can also vary depending on the way you obtained it.
- Fourth Degree Methadone Possession (4 or fewer doses without a prescription)
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Up to 18 months in NJ State Prison
- Third Degree Methadone Possession (Between 5 and 99 doses)
- Up to $200,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Second Degree Methadone Possession (100 doses or more)
- Up to $300,000 in fines
- Up to 10 years in NJ State Prison
- Obtaining a Methadone Prescription Through Fraud, Theft, or Forgery
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Disorderly Persons Offense: Methadone Possession
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 6 months in the county jail
- Disorderly Persons Offense: Failure to Turn Over Methadone to a Police Officer
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 6 months in the county jail
- Suspension of driver’s license for at least 6 months
Contact Us Today to Discuss Methadone Charges
Illegal methadone possession and distribution have severe repercussions in the state of NJ. At Schneider Freiberger, we have experience in defending clients with all levels of methadone charges as well as other prescription drug charges. Contact us today to discuss your options for getting the best result for your case.
