Drugs and the law
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Legal drugs
Some drugs are legal, like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. Also, prescribed and over-the-counter medications are legal if used correctly. However, their use may be restricted based on age, location of use, and rules around where they’re sold. For example, in the UK it is illegal to buy cigarettes if you are under 18. If you are under 16 the police have the right to confiscate any cigarettes you may have on you.
There are also restrictions on driving when under the influence of alcohol or certain prescribed medications.
Legal drugs are also regulated and controlled so that the active ingredients, and alcohol or nicotine content, are consistent across the products.
Understanding drug classification
To comprehend the legal status of various drugs, it’s crucial to understand the classification system in the UK. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 is the law that classifies drugs based on their potential harm and the penalties associated with their possession, supply, and producti...
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