A Connecticut psychiatrist has agreed to pay $455,439 to resolve allegations of issuing excessive and medically unnecessary prescriptions and submitting false claims to Medicare and Medicaid, dangerous drug according to federal and state officials.

Dr. Naimetulla Ahmed Syed, who previously practiced in Danbury and New Haven, faced accusations of prescribing dangerously high amounts of controlled substances without legitimate medical purposes between 2016 and 2021. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Connecticut detailed that Syed frequently prescribed high-risk drug combinations, including the so-called “holy trinity,” which consists of opioids, benzodiazepines, and muscle relaxants. This combination is known for its potential for abuse and life-threatening risks.

Investigation Uncovers Prescription Misconduct

Authorities reported that Syed issued prescriptions to individuals exhibiting clear signs of drug abuse and addiction. An investigation revealed that patient records lacked proper documentation of medical examinations or justification for the prescriptions.

In addition to the prescription-related issues, Syed allegedly billed Medicare and Medicaid for unnecessary office visits tied to the improper prescriptions. The investigation highlighted concerns about the lack of legitimate medical oversight in his practice.

Penalties and Exclusions

As part of the resolution, Syed agreed to a 20-year exclusion from all federal healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program. He also ceased practicing medicine on November 25 under an agreement with the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

This case marks Syed’s second legal issue involving fraudulent practices. In 2016, he paid over $422,000 to settle allegations of submitting false claims for psychotherapy services.

Pharmacy Implications

The case also implicated Cornerstone Pharmacy in New Haven, which faced penalties for its role in filling invalid prescriptions linked to Syed. In April, the pharmacy paid a $120,000 fine, surrendered its DEA license, and subsequently closed its operations.

Ongoing Concerns Over Prescription Dangerous Drug Abuse

The overprescription of dangerous drug combinations, such as the “holy trinity,” has raised alarm among healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies. These drugs, when prescribed without proper oversight, can lead to addiction, overdose, and other life-threatening complications.

Authorities emphasize the importance of medical professionals adhering to strict guidelines when prescribing controlled substances, ensuring that patient safety remains a priority. This case serves as a reminder of the critical role of oversight and accountability in preventing the misuse of prescription medications.

The resolution of this case reflects the government’s commitment to combating healthcare fraud and addressing the opioid crisis. By holding individuals and institutions accountable, officials aim to reduce the risks associated with improper prescribing practices and protect the integrity of public healthcare programs.