What is the difference between a drug and a pharmaceutical?

Drugs and pharmaceuticals are two terms that are often confused or used interchangeably. In California, the law makes a distinction between drugs and pharmaceuticals. Drugs are items listed in the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act, which are generally used for recreational purposes and have an established potential for abuse. This could include street drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and marijuana. Pharmaceuticals, on the other hand, are prescription medications that can only be obtained with a doctor’s prescription. These are items such as painkillers, antibiotics, and other medications designed to treat a medical condition or illness. The California Drug Crimes Law makes a sharp distinction between drugs and pharmaceuticals. For example, the possession of a drug without a valid prescription is considered a crime, and a person found guilty could be subject to fines, jail time, and the loss of certain rights. On the other hand, possession of a pharmaceutical without a valid prescription is a lesser offense and would generally result in a smaller fine and/or drug education classes. In summary, drugs and pharmaceuticals are different from one another, and this distinction is upheld by the laws in California. Whereas drugs are generally intended to be used recreationally and have an accepted potential for abuse, pharmaceuticals are medications prescribed by a doctor for treatment of a medical issue. It is important to understand the differences in order to act within the bounds of the law.

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