Have you heard about tianeptine? In the last few months, this drug has been making headlines as \u201cgas station heroin\u201d. Despite this nickname, tianeptine does not contain heroin, nor is it even an opioid. Even still, there is a lot to be concerned about when it comes to this compound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tianeptine is a tricyclic antidepressant that is claimed to treat depression and other conditions. While tianeptine is prescribed in other countries, it currently has no approved medical uses in the United States (1). When taken in high doses, tianeptine is reported to cause euphoria similar to that experienced with opioid use. Tianeptine misuse can lead to several adverse effects including agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and decreased respiratory function that could lead to coma and death (2). Products containing tianeptine are being sold in commercial establishments like gas stations, hence the nickname \u201cgas station heroin\u201d. The FDA has warned consumers to avoid using all tianeptine products, but the compound remains unscheduled and is still readily available in some places (1).<\/p>\n\n\n