FDA Warns About “Gas Station Heroin” Risks

The head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised alarms about a dangerous substance colloquially known as “gas station heroin.” This drug poses significant health risks, including the potential for fatal outcomes.

Commissioner Martin A. McCurry addressed the growing concern in a communication with a colleague last week, emphasizing the need to monitor what young people are identifying as “dangerous trends” in public health. He noted an uptick in adverse events linked to products containing tianeptine, which is sold at various gas stations, despite lacking FDA approval.

“I’m really concerned,” McCurry stated. “It’s vital that the public understands the dangers and the ongoing risk this product presents to young Americans.” Health officials in New Jersey have also classified “gas station heroin” as a rising threat, warning of its addictive nature.

These products, often marketed under names like Tianaa and Zaza, can be found at convenience stores and online. McCurry highlighted that the FDA is tracking the distribution of tianeptine and urges colleagues to disseminate information regarding its dangers while investigating the extent of its risks.

While tianeptine is authorized in some countries as a specific kind of antidepressant, the recommended dose is typically 12.5 mg taken three times daily. However, higher quantities can induce feelings of euphoria, leading some nations to impose restrictions on its prescription and use.

In the U.S., tianeptine remains outside the Controlled Substances Act. However, it’s often used recreationally, and abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms similar to those of opioids, including cravings and sweating.

McCurry warns that adverse effects can range from agitation to coma, even death, alongside more common symptoms like drowsiness and nausea. Two years ago, health authorities in New Jersey flagged concerns over products like Neptune’s Elixir and Zaza Red, citing a rise in related health complications.

Interestingly, between June and November 2023, New Jersey reported 20 cases of adverse effects linked to tianeptine, indicating severe clinical outcomes. The FDA, in 2023, previously alerted the public to possible dangers associated with these products.

The agency has had several reports of serious issues following the use of tianeptine, including life-threatening situations like seizures. They emphasize that tianeptine does not align with the legal definition of dietary ingredients and is considered an unsafe food additive. In late January 2024, Neptune Resources, the company behind Neptune’s Elixir, voluntarily recalled their product due to tianeptine’s presence but warned that other similar products might contain the substance.

For those experiencing withdrawal symptoms from tianeptine, contacting the National Center for Toxicology Control at 1-800-222-1222 for assistance or seeking emergency medical care is highly recommended.