Virginia § 18.2-265.20 - Sale or distribution of dextromethorphan to minors; purchase by minors; civil penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-265.20 — Sale or distribution of dextromethorphan to minors; purchase by minors; civil penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.2-265.20. Sale or distribution of dextromethorphan to minors; purchase by minors; civil penalty
A. It is unlawful for any pharmacy or retail distributor knowingly or intentionally to sell or distribute any product containing dextromethorphan to a minor.
B. A pharmacy or retail distributor, or its employee or agent, shall not sell or distribute a product containing dextromethorphan unless the purchaser presents a federal, state, or local government-issued document that contains a photograph and the birth date of the purchaser that shows that the purchaser is at least 18 years of age or unless from the purchaser's outward appearance the pharmacy or retail distributor would reasonably presume the purchaser to be 25 years of age or older.
C. It is unlawful for any minor knowingly or intentionally to purchase any product containing dextromethorphan.
D. Any pharmacy or retail distributor, or its employee or agent, that violates subsection A or any minor who violates subsection C is subject to a civil penalty of $25. Any pharmacy or retail distributor, or its employee or agent, that violates subsection B shall receive a notice of noncompliance and, upon any subsequent violation of subsection B, shall be subject to a civil penalty of $25. Such penalty shall be collected by the attorney for the Commonwealth for the locality where the violation occurred, and the proceeds shall be deposited into the Literary Fund.
E. The provisions of this section shall not apply if the product was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a valid prescription or order of a practitioner while acting in the course of his professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by the Drug Control Act (§ 54.1-3400 et seq.).
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-265.20
What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-265.20 cover?
Section 18.2-265.20 ("Sale or distribution of dextromethorphan to minors; purchase by minors; civil penalty") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 18.2-265.20?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-265.20" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 18.2-265.20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.