• It is illegal to sell or use another's prescription medication in New Jersey.drugs image by alimat from Fotolia.com
  
  A prescription (Rx) is a medication that is prescribed by a doctor and is only available through a pharmacist or pharmacy. Prescription medications are not available on the shelf or over the counter. New Jersey has laws on prescription fraud and forgery as well as laws regarding unlawful possession and distribution of prescription drugs.
  
  

Criminal Possession and Distribution

• In New Jersey, prescription medications carry legal implications with their use. For example, it is illegal for an individual to sell prescription drugs, including his own, and to use prescription drugs that are not prescribed to him by his doctor, under the New Jersey Controlled Dangerous Substance Act, the New Jersey Pharmacy Act and other state laws.
  
  

Prescription Drug Retail Price Registry

• The New Jersey Prescription Drug Retail Price Registry compares retail prices for the 150 most-frequently prescribed medications in New Jersey. The list allows consumers to compare a particular pharmacy's price for a medication to the price on the list, thereby helping the consumer find the best price in his area. All pharmacies in New Jersey must by law report their prices to the Prescription Drug Retail Price Registry.
  
  

Prescription Fraud

• New Jersey has specific laws dealing with prescription fraud. Under N.J.S. 2C:35-13, an individual who obtains or acquires prescription medication by fraud, forgery, deception or misrepresentation can be convicted for prescription fraud. For example, if an individual fakes symptoms to receive a prescription for medication, she can be convicted of prescription fraud. In New Jersey, prescription fraud is a criminal offense of the third degree, punishable by a fine of up to $50,000.