The FDA’s boss is raising a red flag about a dangerous drug known as “gas station heroin,” which could lead to serious harm, including death. The FDA Commissioner, Martin A. Makary, highlighted this alarming issue in a letter to his colleagues, calling it a “dangerous and growing health trend” that’s impacting the nation and young people in particular. There’s been a rising number of incidents involving products containing tianeptine, a substance often sold in gas stations despite not having FDA approval.
“I am very concerned,” Makary expressed in his message. His aim is to alert the public about this dangerous product and the risks it poses, especially to America’s youth. Health officials in New Jersey have also warned about the threat posed by “gas station heroin,” describing it as “dangerous and addictive.”
These products are usually found in convenience stores, gas stations, vape shops, and online, often under names like Tianaa, ZaZa, Neptune’s Fix, Pegasus, and TD Red. The FDA is keeping an eye on the sale and distribution of tianeptine-containing products. However, Makary is urging his colleagues to spread the word about the drug and its dangers.
Tianeptine is used in some countries as an antidepressant, typically in doses of 12.5 mg taken orally three times a day. However, when taken in higher doses, it can cause euphoria. Some countries have already tightened how tianeptine is prescribed or sold, and have revised labels to warn about its potential for addiction.
In the U.S., tianeptine isn’t classified under the Controlled Substances Act, yet it’s often used recreationally. Stopping its use abruptly could lead to withdrawal symptoms similar to those from opioids, like cravings, sweating, and diarrhea. If ingested, tianeptine could cause severe reactions such as agitation, coma, confusion, and even death.
Two years ago, health officials in New Jersey sounded the alarm about products like Neptune’s Elixir and ZaZa Red, which had led to a rise in illnesses. In 2023, the FDA issued a warning about the dangers of products containing tianeptine, such as Neptune’s Fix, noting severe adverse effects like seizures.
The FDA has clarified that tianeptine does not qualify as a dietary ingredient and is considered an unsafe food additive. They have received numerous reports of serious adverse events associated with tianeptine, raising further concern.
On January 28, 2024, Neptune Resources, LLC, the company behind Neptune’s Fix, voluntarily recalled its products because of the presence of tianeptine. Despite this, experts caution that other products might still contain the drug.
Anyone using tianeptine or products containing it and experiencing withdrawal symptoms should contact the National Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical help. It’s vital for everyone to be informed and cautious about these potentially dangerous substances.
