Why it matters: The DEA has rescinded a directive ordering pharmaceutical company Morris & Dickson to shut down operations due to their role in the opioid crisis. This decision comes after the company had their license revoked and was found to have violated controlled substance laws by distributing suspicious shipments of opioids.
What they are saying: Judge Charles Dorman, who handled the case, called Morris & Dickson’s violations the most blatant and egregious he had seen. The DEA spokesperson emphasized the responsibility of drug distributors to protect customer safety and expressed hope that the settlement would prevent similar practices in the future.
The big picture: This case highlights the issue of regulatory capture and potential conflicts of interest in the pharmaceutical industry. The involvement of a former DEA employee who became a consultant for Morris & Dickson raises concerns about biased decision-making and delayed action.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor whether Morris & Dickson complies with the heightened reporting requirements and whether they take steps to prevent future violations. The case may also prompt further scrutiny of the relationship between regulatory agencies and the industries they oversee.
My take: The rescinding of the directive and the settlement with Morris & Dickson raise questions about the accountability of pharmaceutical companies involved in perpetuating the opioid crisis. The involvement of a former DEA employee as a consultant for the company raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undermines public trust in regulatory agencies. It will be important for the DEA to ensure that stronger measures are in place to prevent future violations and to address any perceived biases in decision-making processes.
