Is ‘Gas Station Heroin’ Legal? Discover the Shocking Truth and What You Need to Know!

Health experts are raising alarms about a product often referred to as “gas station heroin.” These colorful bottles, found in convenience stores and gas stations, are marketed as energy shots or cognitive boosters but contain tianeptine—a drug that’s not approved for medical use in the U.S. and can be quite addictive.

For over a decade, U.S. poison control centers have seen a steady uptick in calls linked to tianeptine. Recently, the FDA issued a warning, highlighting the serious risks associated with these products.

Tianeptine is an antidepressant in some countries but has never received FDA approval in the U.S. This means it cannot legally be mixed into food or sold as a supplement. Despite this, various brands—like Zaza and TD Red—continue to market tianeptine. “It’s a gray area,” says Dr. Diane Calello of the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System. “The ingredients are not tested like medications.”

Last year, her team documented emergency calls related to a product called Neptune’s Fix, which caused severe reactions in over a dozen users, including rapid heart rates and seizures.

So, why do people turn to these products? Many claim, without any scientific backing, that tianeptine can alleviate issues like pain and depression. Although it’s not an opioid, it interacts with some brain receptors similarly, leading to effects comparable to oxycodone. Dr. Hannah Hays from Nationwide Children’s Hospital warns that people seeking opioid-like effects may inadvertently put themselves at risk for dangerous side effects, such as slowed breathing.

Recent statistics underscore a troubling trend: poison control center calls related to tianeptine surged by 525% from 2018 to 2023. Many individuals required medical attention, and critical cases rose as well. Some speculate that the increase in users is linked to the growing potency of these products. Dr. Calello notes that you can never be certain of what’s in these bottles, as variations in formulations can lead to unexpected dangers.

Regarding policies, tianeptine is not categorized under the federal Controlled Substances Act. However, several states, including Alabama and Ohio, have enacted laws to restrict its use. Interestingly, these laws have shown promise in reducing harm. After Alabama imposed restrictions, calls related to tianeptine dropped, while they continued to rise in neighboring states.

Staying informed is key. If you or someone you know is battling issues like pain or addiction, consulting a healthcare professional for approved treatments is essential. Products like tianeptine might seem harmless, but they pose significant risks that can worsen existing health problems.

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Medication, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Ohio, District of Columbia, Alabama, AL State Wire, Lifestyle, Dietary supplements, Health, Opioids, Diane Calello, Hannah Hays