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It’s been dubbed “gas station heroin,” and though the name sounds sensational, the dangers are very real. Tianeptine—a substance originally developed as an antidepressant in other countries—has found its way into American gas stations and vape shops, often marketed as a supplement for brain health or mood enhancement. But here in Virginia, medical experts are warning: it’s not safe, it’s not approved, and it could be deadly.
Tianeptine is not approved by the FDA for any use in the U.S., yet it has been sold under names like “Zaza,” “Tianna,” and other seemingly benign labels. In convenience stores and online, it’s often promoted as a nootropic—a substance that supposedly improves cognitive function. But the science doesn’t back that up. In fact, the only thing medical professionals have seen consistently is harm.
“These substances are coming in being advocated as brain boosters,” said Dr. Chris Holstege, director of UVA Health’s Blue Ridge Poison Center. “There’s no evidence that it helps your brain health, and actually it can really hurt your brain health.”
According to WFXR Fox news, Doctors across Virginia have reported seeing cases of tianeptine use leading to symptoms strikingly similar to opioid abuse and withdrawal: rapid heart rate, spikes in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression, and even loss of consciousness. The exact level of addiction risk is still being studied, but the patterns are disturbing enough for state officials to act.
The Virginia Board of Pharmacy has placed tianeptine under emergency scheduling, making it illegal to sell in the state until at least the end of July. That emergency action comes as more residents fall victim to misleading marketing and potentially life-threatening side effects.
Dr. John Downs, director of the Virginia Poison Center at VCU, is blunt in his warning: “It’s not safe, and I would discourage it from being used or started on. Even if you hear stories that it might help your memory or what not, time and time again we’ve seen this only causes problems.”
The story of tianeptine is all too familiar—a product slips through regulatory gaps, marketed as something it’s not, only to wreak havoc on public health before action is taken. But officials in Virginia are hoping that awareness and swift policy changes will help stem the tide.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid use or has questions about substances like tianeptine, reach out to Avenues Recovery. Our highly professional team understands the complexities of addiction and is here to offer guidance, care, and a path toward healing. Don’t wait until it’s too late—support is just one step away.