Health officials are increasingly concerned about a substance commonly referred to as “gas station heroin,” which can be found in bright little bottles sold at gas stations, convenience stores, and smoke shops. These products often market themselves as energy boosters or cognitive supplements but actually contain tianeptine, an unapproved drug known for its addictive properties and potentially serious side effects. This article will delve into the implications of tianeptine, its rising prevalence, and the dangers it poses.
### Understanding Tianeptine
Tianeptine was developed as an antidepressant and is approved for use in several countries, but it has never received FDA approval in the United States for any medical condition. Legally, it cannot be added to foods, beverages, or sold as a dietary supplement, despite this, various companies still market tianeptine under brand names like Zaza, Tianaa, Pegasus, and TD Red. According to health officials, this situation exists within a gray area of consumer product regulation, leading to health professionals expressing concern over potential risks.
Dr. Diane Calello of the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System explains that the lack of testing and regulation means that consumers may not know what they are ingesting. In a concerning development, her team documented a surge in emergency calls linked to a flavored elixir called Neptune’s Fix. Patients reported distressing symptoms, including rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and even seizures after consumption; several required intensive medical care.
### Why Do People Use Tianeptine Products?
Despite the lack of empirical support for their claims, numerous products containing tianeptine assert that they can treat issues such as addiction, pain, and depression. In 2018, the FDA issued a warning against one product that claimed to help treat cravings for opiates. While tianeptine is not an opioid itself, it binds to some of the same brain receptors, producing effects similar to opioids like oxycodone. This similarity carries serious risks, including dangerously slow breathing.
Dr. Hannah Hays of Nationwide Children’s Hospital emphasizes that individuals grappling with addiction or mental health issues should seek FDA-approved treatments. The risks posed by self-medicating with substances like tianeptine are substantial and can lead to dangerous situations.
### The Rise in Tianeptine Use and Emergencies
While it’s challenging to quantify the exact rise in tianeptine use nationwide, calls to poison control centers indicate a troubling trend. Reports indicate a staggering 525% increase in emergency calls related to tianeptine from 2018 to 2023. Alarmingly, approximately 40% of those cases required medical intervention, with over half needing critical care.
As more users turn to these products, reports suggest they may be increasingly potent and hazardous. One analysis revealed that Neptune’s Fix contained not only tianeptine but also synthetic cannabis and other drugs, further underscoring the unpredictability of what might be found in these bottles.
### Current Regulations and Their Effectiveness
Despite its documented risks, tianeptine is not listed under the federal Controlled Substances Act, which regulates drugs with high potential for abuse. However, numerous states, including Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio, have enacted laws to prohibit or restrict tianeptine sales.
These regulations have shown some promise in reducing harm associated with tianeptine. For instance, Alabama recorded a dramatic increase in tianeptine-related calls, soaring over 1,400% from 2018 to 2021. However, after implementing restrictions in 2021, the state observed a modest decline in calls, contrasting with rising call rates in other states.
### The Urgent Need for Awareness and Action
Given the mounting evidence surrounding the dangers of tianeptine, it is vital for consumers to educate themselves about these “gas station heroin” products. Many individuals may be drawn to them hoping to alleviate symptoms of pain or mental health challenges, not realizing the substantial risks involved. Furthermore, what is sold under the guise of a supplement may vary significantly in composition, further endangering users.
Healthcare professionals emphasize that treatment for conditions like pain and addiction should be conducted under medical supervision, using FDA-approved methods. Taking matters into one’s own hands with unverified products can lead to dire consequences.
In conclusion, as tianeptine use appears to be on the rise, awareness of its potential dangers must become a priority. It is essential for consumers to consult healthcare professionals before trying unapproved supplements and seek evidence-based treatments for their conditions. The stakes are high, and understanding the risks associated with substances like tianeptine can be life-saving.
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