Tianeptine Addiction And Abuse

What Is Tianeptine?

Tianeptine is a drug originally developed as an antidepressant. It works differently from most antidepressants because it doesn’t act mainly on serotonin reuptake like SSRIs. Instead, it influences glutamate signaling in the brain and has effects on the opioid receptors, which is why it can also produce pain relief and, in some cases, euphoria.

In many countries (like France and parts of Europe), tianeptine is prescribed for depression and anxiety under brand names such as Stablon or Coaxil. However, in the United States, it is not approved by the FDA for any medical use. Despite this, it has been sold online or in gas stations and smoke shops as a so-called “gas station heroin,” often marketed as a dietary supplement or nootropic.

Because of its opioid-like properties, tianeptine can be addictive when misused. High doses may lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms similar to opioids, and serious health risks, including overdose.

Tianeptine is often referred to as:

• Tianna
• Tianeptine sodium powder
• Tianna green
• Tianna red
• Tianna white
• Tianeptine sulfate

How Is Tianeptine Taken?

When prescribed medically (in countries where it is approved), tianeptine is taken orally in tablet form, usually in doses of 12.5 mg three times per day for depression or anxiety. It’s intended to be taken at regular intervals throughout the day rather than in a single large dose.

However, outside medical settings, such as in the U.S., where it is not FDA-approved, people sometimes misuse tianeptine by taking it in much higher doses than prescribed, or by using powders, capsules, or even liquids sold online or at gas stations. In these cases, it may be swallowed, mixed with drinks, or, in severe misuse, even injected, which carries high risks of overdose, dependence, and other medical complications.

It works by increasing the brain’s serotonin uptake, to lower stress levels and promote better moods when taken in low dosages. Additionally, it functions to assist anxiety and depressive disorders by producing mood-boosting dopamine by activating the brain’s opioid receptors. Interestingly enough, the dopamine effect of the drug has been comparable to kratom and some opioids, hence its poor reputation in the states.

Tianeptine Risks And Side Effects

Long-term use of tianeptine can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms, similar to those seen with opioids, since the drug activates opioid receptors in the brain. As tolerance develops, some people may increase their dose, which raises the risk of addiction, withdrawal, and other opioid-like side effects.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported cases where individuals misusing tianeptine also combined it with substances such as alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or phenibut. Mixing tianeptine with other drugs greatly increases the risk of overdose and serious health complications. While its full range of side effects is still being studied, evidence shows that misuse of tianeptine carries significant health risks.

Side effects of tianeptine may include:

In addition to the above side effects, cardiovascular, neurological, and respiratory symptoms have been reported as side effects. Because withdrawal is likely to occur due to long-term use or frequent high dosages, going cold turkey or self-tapering may not be as successful compared to getting detox or tapering in a medical facility.

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Tianeptine Withdrawal And Signs Of Abuse

Tianeptine can cause a range of withdrawal symptoms, and their severity depends on factors such as how long the drug has been used, the dosage, how often it was taken, and whether it was combined with other substances. Typical withdrawal symptoms include:

Signs of tianeptine abuse may include difficulty reducing or stopping use, needing higher doses to feel normal, combining it with other substances (often to cope with mental health symptoms), developing tolerance, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

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