What Is Tianeptine And Why Is It Dangerous?
Some supplements sold at gas stations and convenience stores contain tianeptine, a substance sometimes called “gas station heroin.” It’s not technically an opioid, but it acts like one, making it addictive, dangerous, and often unregulated.
People may take it without realizing the risks, leading to dependence, withdrawal, or even overdose. If you’ve taken a supplement and aren’t sure what was in it, call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. We’re here 24/7 for free and confidential help.
💊 Want to learn more about tianeptine? Check out our detailed tianeptine blog here!
Transcript with visual descriptions
Visual: A white background with colored capsules and pills. A red text box says “What is Tianeptine/Zaza Red?”. The Missouri Poison Center logo is visible.
Sound: Upbeat, light-hearted instrumental music begins.
Visual: Man with a red cowboy hat and flannel shirt jumps on-screen.
Person 1: Howdy, partner!
Visual: Another man is sitting at his desk in front of a computer.
Person 2: Yeah, I don’t know what this is, but we’re not doing that today.
Person 1: Oh, why not?
Person 2: Did you know that those sketchy supplements at gas stations can end you?
Sound: Thud sound effect as he sits.
Person 1: Oh, I’m listening.
Person 2: Yeah, apparently they can contain tianeptine,
Person 2: which is affectionately known as… Gas-station heroi–
Sound: Record scratch sound effect.
Person 2: Sorry! We can’t say that word, this app doesn’t like it.
Visual: A close-up of two red capsules. Below them, “TIANEPTINE” is written in red text. The image transitions to a black and white close-up of a person screaming.
Sound: Loud scream sound effect.
Person 1: Oh, I don’t like that.
Person 2: Yeah, so it’s not an opi**d, but it acts like one.
Person 2: And it’s totally legal in most states, apparently because it’s “herbal”.
Person 1: And therefore unregulated.
Person 2: Right. And you can get hooked super easily without even knowing it.
Person 1: Oh, that’s fun.
Person 2: You can “over do it” or get withdrawals, too.
Person 1: And these are just those “energy enhancers,” “mood stabilizers,” and “supplements” you can buy at the counter?
Person 2: Yep.
Person 2: So, you know, check the ingredients on those things before you eat them.
Person 1: Well, I mean, to be fair, I feel like you should do that with their hot dogs and their tacos, too.
Visual: An illustration of two hot dogs is placed on top of Person 1’s hat. Three tacos appear near his shoulder.
Person 2: This is supposed to be a serious video!
Person 1: Sorry! Sorry.
Sound: Thud sound effect. Music stops.
Visual: Missouri Poison Center logo and 1-800-222-1222 on screen.
Person 2: And if YOU have a question about poison, post it in the comments below and we’ll answer it!
Person 1: So you’re telling me I can just jump in these comments and say…
