It is very common for those suffering with substance use to be addicted to drugs that are legal. With that being said, just because a drug is legal does not mean that it is safe to use – especially in large doses. Tianeptine, known as “gas station heroin”, is an addictive drug that is frequently sold at gas stations and convenience stores. Taken at high doses, tianeptine can be extremely dangerous, with its effects mimicking those of opioids like fentanyl.
Food and Drug Administration Recommendations
The Food and Drug Administration, (FDA), is now strongly recommending that consumers avoid purchasing or consuming tianeptine. This synthetic drug is frequently sold in powder form and is available to purchase at gas stations and smoke shops. The dangers of tianeptine consumption include addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and even the possibility of an overdose. The drug is so powerful, that extended use can even lead to kidney damage, psychosis, and even death.
The FDA has been warning consumers for several years now to avoid purchasing the drug. However, these convenience stores and gas stations are still marketing the drug to consumers as a beneficial dietary supplement. It’s certainly alarming and unfortunate that these stores are more interested in making a profit, rather than caring about the health, and well-being of their customers. It’s also false advertising, as the FDA has warned that tianeptine is not classified as a “dietary supplement”.
How Tianeptine Works
You may be wondering how tianeptine works. Upon consumption, use of this drug activates the same receptors that are triggered by the drugs morphine, fentanyl, and heroin. Similar to the effects of those drugs, tianeptine produces a “high” but can also result in slowed breathing. Additionally, it is known that tianeptine consumption can cause extreme agitation. Withdrawal from the drug is also very unpleasant and causes a similar experience to withdrawal from opioids.
Suggestions for Avoiding Tianeptine
Since the drug has not been approved by the FDA, it is surprising that the drug can still be legally sold. The reason for this is that the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) has the power and authority to control access to the drug. Until the DEA deems that the drug has no legitimate medical benefits, tianeptine can still be sold.
Therefore, it is recommended that users stay away from synthetic non-FDA approved drugs. The risks of using drugs such as tianeptine are just too extreme and dangerous when comparing the risks to the potential benefits. If you are suffering with a medical condition and believe you need specific treatment, consult with a doctor first. There are many FDA-approved medications, available with a prescription from a doctor, that are much safer to use than drugs like tianeptine.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, Victory Recovery Partners is here to help. We are a network of 5 addiction and recovery centers on Long Island, New York. We offer total care under one roof – this includes behavioral health, psychiatric, wellness, and MAT services. For more information on Victory Recovery Partners, visit our website, www.victoryrp.com
