A substance often referred to as “gas station heroin” is drawing growing concern from health officials, as more states move to restrict or ban it.
Tianeptine, a tricyclic antidepressant, has now been classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in 14 states. Connecticut became the latest to take action, with a ban on its sale and use taking effect Wednesday.
The drug can produce feelings of euphoria at higher doses and, according to the FDA, may be more potent than morphine and other addictive opioids. Some countries have already tightened how it’s prescribed or required stronger warnings about its risks.
Misuse can lead to serious health effects, including respiratory depression, heavy sedation, and death, the DEA has warned.
Despite that, tianeptine is often marketed as a supplement for pain, anxiety, depression, or mental focus. It’s sold in forms like pills, powders, and liquids under names such as Tianaa, ZaZa, Neptune’s Fix, Pegasus, and TD Red. These products are commonly found in gas stations, convenience stores, vape shops, and online.
Connecticut officials said the move to ban it is meant to curb addiction and protect vulnerable groups. Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz pointed to misleading marketing and candy-like flavors as factors that made the drug especially risky, particularly for young people and those dealing with substance use disorders.
The state also added several other substances to its controlled list, including kratom derivatives, bromazolam, flubromazolam, nitazenes, and phenibut.
Earlier this month, FDA Commissioner Martin Makary warned of what he described as a “dangerous and growing health trend,” urging the public to be aware of the risks, especially for younger users.
Dr. Robert Schwaner of Stony Brook Emergency Medicine noted that tianeptine has never been approved by the FDA as a dietary supplement. He explained that while low doses can create mild euphoria through serotonin activity, higher doses act on opioid receptors, increasing the risk of overdose.
Like other opioids, he said, the drug can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal — and in severe cases, suppress breathing to the point of cardiac arrest.
