Flynn requests a special master to review the deceased doctor's patient files, which the police cannot do because doctor-patient confidentiality rights belong to the patient. In California, a special master is an attorney who accompanies law enforcement officials when searching the documents of persons whose practice guarantees client/patient confidentiality (i.e. doctors, priests, attorneys.) The purpose of a special master is to protect the interests of the professional and his/her clients. Special masters are drawn from a list maintained by the California Bar Association, and cannot be attorneys practicing criminal law.
The adverse effects of the trial medication discussed in the episode elude to Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, NMS. It is a potentially life threatening response to certain antipsychotic medication. As described with the young man that died, it's onset of symptoms is rapid and severe and without fast medical intervention can lead to severe long-term deficits and sometimes death. The tired feeling is secondary to a rapidly spiking temperature,the body's response an increase in white blood cells (WBCs), indicating an infectious process. The "convulsions" mentioned are likely febrile seizures. Certain psychotropic meds have strict protocols in place for administration, titration and also stopping of these medications specifically to monitor and avoid these potential dangerous side effects.
Brenda says that Tao is 45 years old. The episode aired July 11, 2005, and Michael Paul Chan's birthdate is June 26, 1950...so depending on when the episode filmed - there is a 9-10 year age difference between the actor and the character.
When the president of the drug company threatens to destroy the psychiatrist conducting the drug trial, he shakes it off by commenting he has tenure. Tenure is earned after roughly six years, when an academic's position becomes permanent.