FDA, CDC issue warnings about dietary supplements containing tianeptine
Gas Station Heroin is a term used for unregulated, dietary supplements containing tianeptine. The FDA and CDC have issued warnings that these supplements can cause withdrawal symptoms, can be highly addictive, and are linked to synthetic cannabis which can cause life-threatening medical issues, including seizures, brain swelling, and hallucinations.
Key Takeaways
- Gas Station Heroin refers to dietary supplements that include tianeptine.
- Companies claim these unregulated products can improve brain function, as well as treat depression, anxiety, pain, and opioid use disorder.
- However, tianeptine is highly addictive, it can cause withdrawal symptoms, and supplements containing it often include synthetic cannabis which can cause life-threatening medical issues.
- The FDA and CDC have issued warnings about products with tianeptine, including Neptune’s Fix, Za Za Red, and Tianaa. Several states have even banned tianeptine, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee.
A news search shows reports of gas station heroin began emerging last year but have increased in frequency more recently. Their street name highlights their potential for misuse, the severe health risks associated with these products, and where you can typically find them for purchase.
Tianeptine is Only Part of the Problem
While products containing tianeptine are not FDA-approved, they come with broad claims, suggesting they can improve brain function and treat anxiety, depression, pain, opioid use disorder, and other conditions. But these products have gained attention for different reasons.
- Highly Addictive: Routinely taking mood-boosting supplements with tianeptine can lead to misuse and cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Synthetic Cannabinoids: Products including tianeptine have also been found to contain synthetic cannabinoids, used to create effects like cannabis, also known as marijuana.
- Severe Health Risks: In addition to withdrawal symptoms, including rapid heart rate, vomiting, agitation, confusion, and hallucinations, tianeptine can cause issues interacting with certain medications. Misuse can cause severe health issues, including high blood pressure, seizures, brain swelling, and coma.
Dietary Supplements ≠ Safe & Effective
Dietary supplements may seem harmless since they can be easily purchased and are sold nationwide.
But unlike most over-the-counter and prescription medications, it’s important to note that before they are available for purchase, dietary supplements are NOT reviewed by the FDA to ensure they meet quality, safety, and efficacy standards.
Supplements are unregulated, and the FDA is limited to evaluation and action after they are on the market. You should always examine the ingredients of any product you may ingest.
“Dietary supplements are NOT reviewed by the FDA to ensure they meet quality, safety, and efficacy standards.”
Specific Products to Avoid
Tianeptine health issues have been reported after taking Tianaa, Za Za Red, and any product under the Neptune’s Fix brand.
In addition to the FDA and CDC issuing warnings due to the health issues reported, several states have banned its use altogether. The sale of supplements containing tianeptine is illegal in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee.
Referring to these products as gas station heroin should imply the serious issues and significant health risks these supplements can cause. Unregulated products mean the dosage, purity, and possible drug interactions may be inaccurate. A licensed medical professional should be consulted before you take any products for your physical, mental, or emotional health.
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