FDA head raises alarm on ‘gas station heroin’ impact on youth

The head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is issuing a warning about a dangerous drug known as “gas station heroin,” which has been linked to serious harm and even death. FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary recently sent a letter to his colleagues to address the growing health threat posed by products containing tianeptine.

Tianeptine, commonly referred to as “gas station heroin,” is being sold in gas stations and convenience stores under various brand names such as ZaZa, Tianna Red, Neptune’s Fix, Pegasus, and TD Red. Despite not being approved by the FDA, these products are easily accessible and have become increasingly popular among young people.

The FDA is closely monitoring the distribution and sale of tianeptine-containing products, but Makary emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the dangers associated with this drug. While tianeptine is approved for use as an atypical antidepressant in some countries, it is not regulated under the Controlled Substances Act in the U.S.

When taken in higher doses, tianeptine can produce euphoria, leading to recreational use. However, abrupt cessation of the drug can result in withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced with opioids, including cravings, sweating, diarrhea, and more. Adverse events associated with tianeptine ingestion may include agitation, coma, confusion, drowsiness, hypertension, nausea, respiratory depression, sweating, tachycardia, and vomiting.

In a recent alert, the CDC reported a spike in illnesses related to two tianeptine-containing products sold as dietary supplements in New Jersey. These products, Neptune’s Elixir and ZaZa Red, were linked to 20 cases of severe clinical effects between June and November 2023. As a result, the FDA issued a warning about Neptune’s Fix and similar products, urging consumers to be cautious.

Neptune Resources, LLC, the maker of Neptune’s Fix, voluntarily recalled its products due to the presence of tianeptine. However, experts warn that other products may still contain the drug, posing a continued risk to public health. Individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms from tianeptine use are advised to seek medical assistance or contact the National Poison Control Center.

The FDA’s alert serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with unregulated substances like tianeptine and underscores the need for increased awareness and vigilance among consumers. As the agency continues to monitor the situation, it is essential for the public to exercise caution and avoid products that may contain harmful ingredients.