Tianeptine Use
Possible Health Risks and Withdrawal Effects
Tianeptine, an antidepressant used in some countries, is not approved for medical use in others. While some people buy it as a supplement that claims to improve mood, relieve pain, and enhance performance, its safety raises concerns because people can misuse it and become addicted. People who use tianeptine may face several unwanted effects, especially at higher doses. Some of these effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Disturbing dreams
Taking more tianeptine increases the chance of side effects. High doses can cause serious and even life-threatening problems. Because tianeptine can act on the same brain receptors as opioids, it may create a euphoric high when misused. This makes it more likely to be abused, especially by individuals already prone to addiction or those looking to self-medicate.
High Dose and Mixing Dangers
At high doses, tianeptine can cause euphoria. Some users combine it with opioids, alcohol, or other drugs to get stronger effects. This combination can trigger fast heartbeat, drops in blood pressure, seizures, or even cardiac arrest.
| Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Slowed breathing | May result from mixed drug use. |
| Fast heartbeat | Often occurs at higher doses. |
| Blood pressure spikes | Dangerous, especially if combined. |
| Seizures | Potentially applicable in overdose scenarios. |
| Accidental poisoning | Increased risk with other drugs. |
People with a history of substance misuse face an even higher risk of overdose and addiction with tianeptine. Poison control centers have received reports of severe bad reactions, especially when people misuse tianeptine or mix it with other substances.
Some emergency rooms have reported life-threatening complications caused by tianeptine products sold at gas stations or online. Patients may arrive confused, unresponsive, or in respiratory distress.
Addiction and Dependence Potential
Tianeptine affects the body in ways similar to opioid drugs. People who use it without medical guidance or in large amounts have a high risk of becoming dependent or addicted. Signs of addiction include needing larger doses, cravings, or continued use despite harm.
The longer someone uses tianeptine, the harder it becomes to stop. Tolerance builds over time, leading individuals to increase their dose just to feel the same effects. This cycle raises the risk of overdose and dependence.
Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms
Stopping tianeptine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms much like those from opioids. These can appear soon after the last dose. Common symptoms include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Muscle pain
- Sweating
- Chills and shaking
- Depression
Some people find these symptoms very hard to manage, leading them to use tianeptine again and become dependent. Withdrawal reactions are often worse for those who took high doses or used the drug for a long time.
Medical support may be needed to stop using tianeptine safely, especially if symptoms are intense. Treatment plans may include supervised detox, counseling, and medication to ease withdrawal discomfort.
Abuse and Safety Concerns
People sometimes call tianeptine “gas station heroin” because of its abuse potential and opioid-like effects. Misuse and accidental poisoning have led to deaths and serious medical emergencies. The drug is not considered a controlled substance in some areas, making it easier to buy and abuse.
Health organizations warn that the risks of unwanted effects, overdose, and addiction outweigh any possible benefits for most people. Bad reactions, including slowed breathing and severe illness, can happen with misuse.
Summary Table: Risks Associated With Tianeptine
| Risk Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Addiction risk | Comparable to opioids |
| Withdrawal symptoms | Can appear quickly |
| Overdose potential | High with large amounts |
| Misuse with other drugs | Increases dangers |
| Poisoning calls to health systems | On the rise |
People thinking about using tianeptine for any reason should talk with a healthcare professional before use. The risk of severe adverse effects is significant, especially for those at risk of substance misuse or with other health conditions.
It is also important to report any side effects or suspected misuse to local health authorities or poison control centers. Increased awareness may help limit the availability of unsafe or mislabeled tianeptine products.
