Final answer:
Drug seekers and criminals may alter or forge prescriptions in various ways, which poses risks to public health and safety. This illegal activity contributes to the opioid epidemic and can lead to the spread of infectious diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drug seekers and criminals may alter or forge prescriptions in various ways. This can involve modifying the information on a prescription, creating counterfeit prescriptions, or using stolen prescription pads. These individuals may attempt to obtain prescription medications that they do not medically need for personal use or to sell on the illegal market.
For example, they may change the dosage or quantity of the prescribed medication, add unauthorized refills, or even forge the signature of a healthcare provider. Some drug seekers may also engage in doctor shopping, visiting multiple doctors in order to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same medication.
This illegal activity poses significant risks to public health and safety. It can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, such as HIV or hepatitis, if contaminated or non-sterile substances are used as replacements. It can also fuel the opioid epidemic by facilitating the misuse and abuse of prescription opioids.