Needham physician quits medical practice

Dr. Joseph Z. Zolot, a Needham physician who is under federal investigation for allegedly overprescribing addictive narcotics to his patients -- at least six of whom died of overdoses or drug abuse -- has permanently given up his medical practice.

The state Board of Registration in Medicine suspended Zolot's medical license a year ago. But Zolot, 57, decided last week to give up his appeal of the suspension. In a written notice to the state, the doctor said he could not properly defend himself against the board's actions because of "serious ongoing medical issues" and because he does not have access to findings in the ongoing criminal investigation.

Zolot said his decision is "in no way an acknowledgement of wrongdoing or culpability."

Earlier this year, the Globe reported that members of the Russian community were reallying behind Zolot.