Tianeptine is a substance that was once used to treat depression. It’s not your typical antidepressant, and has never been approved for treatment by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical or mental health disorder. But now, this substance seems to be making a comeback, in the wrong way.
Often referred to as gas station heroin, tianeptine often flies under the radar of law enforcement and drug regulation. Yet, it can carry many of the addictive behaviors associated with opioids.
At Anabranch Recovery Center, we work with those facing substance use disorder (SUD) to provide recovery options. If you are facing cravings or intense withdrawal from the use of gas station heroin, reach out to our team for immediate help.
What Is Gas Station Heroin?
Gas station heroin refers to products typically sold over the counter that contain tianeptine, a dangerous and potentially habit-forming drug. It was classified as an atypical tricyclic antidepressant, but acts as a mu-opioid receptor agonist. When used, it does not work in the same way that most other antidepressants work. Instead, it works to create a euphoric high much like what a person experiences when using morphine. This creates the potential for misuse.
You may hear it called:
- ZaZa
- TD Red
- Tianaa
- Neptune’s Fix
- Pegasus
In all of these forms, the substance can become habit-forming as it triggers the opioid receptors in the brain. With continued use, your brain learns to seek out the substance to create the same high. You may find it hard to stop using the substance even as you try to do so.
It is particularly worrisome to people who have a previous opioid use disorder or dependence. Because it creates somewhat of the same experience.
Know the Risks of Gas Station Heroin
FDA reports show the risks associated with this drug. The organization reports that some people turn to tianeptine as an alternative to opioids, or they may use this substance to treat anxiety and depression. It is particularly harmful when taken in higher doses. Some reports indicate that consumers have taken between 1.3 and 250 times the daily tianeptine dose recommended for use in these products in other countries where it is approved for use.
Sold online, in gas stations, and other convenience stores, this drug can be something you are using every day and not realize what the risks are. Yet, for anyone with significant use of substances like this, getting care is critically important.
Withdrawal Symptoms from Tianeptine
When someone using the substance tries to stop using it, they may experience intense withdrawal symptoms. This includes:
- Agitation
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Irregular, fast heart rate
- Drowsiness
- Blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Slowed and stopped breathing
- Coma
- Seizures
- Death
Because these risks are very real and life-threatening, it is best to work with a treatment center if you are using this substance. A drug treatment center like ours at Anabranch will provide you with a safe process for detoxing, minimizing the risk of intense symptoms and medical complications.
What to Do If You Are Using These Substances
In any situation, if you are struggling to stop using these products, it may be time to get help from a treatment center. At Anabranch Recovery Center, we offer comprehensive treatment plans that can support your health and well-being. Examples of the types of care we can offer include:
- A full assessment to determine what your needs are. This allows our admissions counselors to determine the level of support you need.
- Medically monitored detox programs, which allow your body to naturally remove the toxins while we provide support for you, minimizing health risks as we do.
- Residential treatment centers, which provide ongoing in-person help over a period of time. During this care, you’ll receive individual and group therapy and support for any mental health complications you are facing.
An in-person and virtual intensive outpatient program that can offer you a way to work through substance use disorders like this while living at home. Depending on the severity of your condition, this treatment option may be highly effective for you.
Seeking addiction treatment can be a critical factor in overcoming the complexities of gas station heroin. While it may seem harmless, the drug can negatively impact your health and can cause numerous risks, including overdose.
If you are at risk, contact our professionals at Anabranch. We are here to offer help in a supportive environment where you will gain access to trusted professionals, innovative therapies, and solutions for even the most challenging of situations. Contact us now to learn more about how we can help you.
