Tianeptine: Side Effects, Misuse, and Addiction

Tianeptine, a medication with a complex profile, has been making headlines for its unique effects and potential risks. 

Unlike typical antidepressants, tianeptine primarily targets the brain’s glutamate and opioid receptors, offering a different approach to treating depression and anxiety – however, its ability to produce opioid-like effects at high doses raises concerns regarding abuse and addiction potential.

Explore the side effects and risks of tianeptine use, and call us today if you or a loved one require professional recovery support.

What Is Tianeptine?

Tianeptine is a prescription medication sold in Latin America, Asia, and Europe as a tricyclic antidepressant. Rather than raising serotonin levels like various antidepressants, tianeptine mainly targeted the brain's glutamate and opioid receptors. When consumed in large doses, it can generate opioid-like results. 

Unregulated online suppliers usually sell it as a food additive or experimental chemical as tianeptine sodium or tianeptine sulfate. According to Consumer Reports, several gas stations have started selling it because of its legal standing in the United States. Tianeptine is also known by the following names:

• Za Za

• Tatinol

• Stablon

• Tianna white

• Tianeptine sulfate

• Tianna red

• Tianna green

• Zinosal

• Coaxil

• Neptine

• Tianeptine sodium powder

• Tianna

• Salymbra

• Tianeurax

What Is the Legal Status of Tianeptine?

Tianeptine is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for any medical use. Despite this, it is legally available in most U.S. states, often sold in gas stations and online. However, it is banned in Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, and Tennessee. The FDA has issued warnings about the potential for abuse and serious health risks associated with tianeptine.

For more information on the legal status and risks of tianeptine, visit the FDA website.

What Are The Main Causes Of Tianeptine Misuse?

Teenagers and young adults misuse prescription medications like tianeptine for a number of reasons, including:

• To unwind or release tension

• To alleviate discomfort

• To suppress appetite

• To heighten vigilance

• To be social or to be liked by peers

• To become high or to feel the sensational effects

• To keep an addiction going and avoid withdrawal symptoms

• To try to increase concentration and academic or occupational performance

• To try the psychological effects of the drug

What Are the Risks of Tianeptine?

Tianeptine, while used for treating depression and anxiety, carries significant risks, especially when misused. 

• Addiction Potential: Tianeptine can produce opioid-like effects, leading to dependency. Prolonged use can also result in severe anxiety, agitation, and flu-like symptoms during withdrawal.

• Overdose Risks: High doses can cause serious respiratory issues, which can be life-threatening.

• Emergency Situations: Overdose often requires immediate medical attention due to potentially fatal consequences.

• Side Effects: Users may experience confusion and dizziness. Nausea and constipation are also common side effects.

• Dangerous Interactions: Combining tianeptine with alcohol or other medications can lead to unpredictable and dangerous interactions.

• Medical Supervision: Tianeptine should be used strictly under medical supervision. If struggling with misuse, seeking professional help is crucial for safe and effective recovery.

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Is Tianeptine Addictive? The Potential for Abuse

Tianeptine, a medication primarily prescribed for depression and anxiety, has a significant potential for abuse and addiction. Its unique mechanism, which activates opioid receptors in the brain, can lead to dependency, especially when taken in higher doses than prescribed. Here’s a more in-depth overview of its addictive potential:

Euphoric Effects

Tianeptine's ability to produce euphoric and mood-enhancing effects makes it susceptible to misuse. Users may seek out these pleasurable sensations, leading to repeated and increased consumption.

Tolerance and Dependence

With continued use, individuals can develop a tolerance to tianeptine, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This escalation can quickly lead to physical and psychological dependence, making it difficult to stop using the drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal from tianeptine can be severe, presenting symptoms similar to those of opioid withdrawal. These can include intense anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms. The discomfort of withdrawal often drives users back to the drug, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

Misuse and Polydrug Use

Tianeptine is sometimes misused recreationally and may be combined with other substances to enhance its effects. This practice, known as polydrug use, significantly increases the risk of adverse reactions, overdose, and severe health complications.

Lack of Regulation

In some regions, tianeptine is not strictly regulated, making it easier to obtain without a prescription. This lack of control can contribute to higher rates of misuse and addiction.

Given these factors, it is clear that tianeptine has a high potential for abuse. If you or a loved one is struggling with tianeptine addiction, seeking professional help is essential. Treatment options are available to manage withdrawal symptoms, address underlying issues, and support long-term recovery.

Tianeptine Withdrawal Symptoms

Tianeptine withdrawal can lead to a range of symptoms, and the intensity of withdrawal will differ depending on the duration of consumption, polysubstance abuse, quantity of dosage, and frequency of use. The following are examples of general withdrawal symptoms:

• Vomiting

• Excessive sleep

• Loss of appetite

• Anxiety

• High body temperature

• Depression

• Confusion

• Dizziness

• Severe headaches

• Body or muscular cramps

• Suicidal tendencies

• Lack of sleep

• Mood swings

• Indigestion

• Shakiness

• Flu-like symptoms

How To Detox From Tianeptine?

Tianeptine detoxification should be carried out in a medical environment to enhance safety and lessen pain caused by the effects of withdrawal. Depending on the patient's medical history, an alternative opioid tapering regimen is typically given over one or two weeks. Comfort medicines can also be given to patients to help them cope with withdrawal symptoms, and mental and behavioral health assistance are provided throughout tianeptine withdrawal and aftercare. 

Closing Thoughts on Tianeptine

Tianeptine is a medication with significant potential for misuse and addiction, especially when used without medical supervision. Its ability to produce opioid-like effects can lead to dependency, making it crucial for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with its use. If you or a loved one is struggling with tianeptine addiction, seeking professional help is essential. Treatment options are available to manage withdrawal symptoms, address underlying issues, and support long-term recovery.

Struggling with Tianeptine Addiction? Help Is Available at The Edge.

If you or a loved one are struggling with tianeptine abuse, help is available. At The Edge Treatment Center, our team of treatment and mental health experts is ready to lend a hand. Call us today to see how we can support your recovery journey.

Written by

The Forge Recovery Center

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

September 27, 2024