Federal authorities alleged that a Florida gastroenterologist unlawfully prescribed at least 127 controlled substance prescriptions and failed to maintain patient records.
Twan Phanijphand, MD, a gastroenterologist in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, reached a $300,000 civil settlement with the federal government over allegations involving unlawful prescribing of opioids and other controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act. Federal officials alleged that from June 15, 2023, through March 7, 2025, Phanijphand prescribed controlled substances including oxycodone-acetaminophen, hydrocodone-acetaminophen, lorazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, and tramadol, without maintaining records. On April 22, 2026, he voluntarily surrendered his Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration.
Under the settlement, Phanijphand also agreed not to reapply for DEA registration for Schedule II or IIN controlled substances, document completion of continuing medical education in controlled substance prescribing and recordkeeping, and to undergo additional DEA monitoring.
The settlement does not constitute an admission of liability by Phanijphand. The US likewise did not concede that its claims lacked foundation.
“The Controlled Substance Act requires DEA registrants to maintain accurate inventorying, tracking, and recordkeeping to prevent the diversion of controlled substances,” said DEA Tampa Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar.
