Gas station heroin refers to substances that are unregulated products that typically contain tianeptine. They are often sold in gas stations, but also in vape shops and your average convenience store. That makes them seem safe to use, but they are rarely that.
If you or your loved one is facing addictive behaviors as a result of the use of gas station heroin, contact our team at The Ranch at Dove Tree for immediate help. Let us help you protect your future.
What Is Gas Station Heroin?
Gas station heroin, or tianeptine, is a synthetic antidepressant. Developed in the 1960s in France, it was once used as a prescription drug for anxiety and depression. The FDA never approved the drug for similar uses in the United States. When used in high doses, this substance has an opioid- like effect. Continued use can lead to dependency and, in some cases, overdose risk.
And yet, this substance is often on store shelves even today.
To get it past FDA radar, manufacturers of the product typically sell it under various names, including “Tianaa” and “ZaZa,” but they contain this dangerous substance. Some manufacturers sell it as a supplement.
In Texas specifically, Texas SB 1868 (89th Legislature) passed the Senate in April of 2025 and was referred to the House Public Health Committee. This law aims to ban the sale of tianeptine in the state. That has not yet happened.
What Are the Dangers of Gas Station Heroin?
Tianeptine is a highly dangerous substance when used in high doses. It acts on the mu-opioid receptors located in the brain, creating a similar reaction as oxycodone or morphine does. This includes an initial sense of euphoria.
When not used, a person may develop agitation, confusion, and intense cravings. These are typical symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Over time, a tolerance develops, which means individuals will need to continue to use more of the substance to find relief.
Serious side effects of use can include:
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Respiratory depression
- Coma
- Depression
Because this drug works to slow down the nervous system, it can cause a person’s heart and lungs to slow to dangerous levels, until the brain lacks enough oxygen to keep the body functioning. This can lead to a life-threatening overdose.
What Contains Tianeptine?
Though new products continue to launch, some of the most common brand names that include tianeptine include:
- ZaZa
- Tianaa
- Neptune’s Fix
- TD Red
- Pegasus
If you are using products like this or you believe your loved one is, it is critical that you seek immediate help. It can be dangerous to stop using them without treatment. Because manufacturers exploit loopholes in labeling products, including listing them as a supplement, consumers have no idea the real risks these drugs cause.
You may be hopeful in turning to this substance as a way to reduce tension or even limit pain. However, those benefits come at a cost and a high risk of addiction and overdose.
What to Do If You Are Using Gas Station Heroin?
Treatment for gas station heroin addiction is a very real need for some people. If you are using these substances and find it difficult to stop, or you feel that you need to increase how much you are using, that is an indication that professional treatment can be necessary and even essential.
At The Ranch at Dove Tree, we offer a variety of treatment programs. Our treatment programs for opioid addiction may be an ideal starting point for you. When you step into treatment, you receive exceptional support from a team dedicated to supporting your long-term recovery. Some people benefit from a detox program, especially if they are still using the substance or using it with other substances.
With residential treatment programs, you’ll work one-on-one with our team to navigate the physical, emotional, and mental health changes in your life brought on by the presence of these substances. During treatment, you’ll work with therapists who can give you tools to navigate your thought processes and how they impact your health.
Many people also benefit from outpatient therapy programs in Lubbock. These can continue to support your health and wellbeing as you step back into daily life. What you don’t have to be is alone. We are here to help you.
Set Up Some Time to Talk to Us
Our admissions counselors are always available to offer insight and guidance to you. We can answer your questions and guide you in getting into a treatment plan that addresses your needs. Contact The Ranch at Dove Tree now for help with gas station heroin.
