Evidence-Based Outpatient Treatment for “Gas Station Heroin” Dependence
Tianeptine is marketed in some countries as an antidepressant, but in the United States, it’s often sold in gas stations and online as a supplement—under brand names like Zaza or Tianna. Known on the street as “gas station heroin,” tianeptine has opioid-like properties that make it highly addictive. At Lanier Recovery Center in Atlanta, our outpatient treatment programs provide ethical, personalized care for those struggling with tianeptine misuse, offering support rooted in clinical expertise, integrity, and real-life recovery strategies.
What Is Tianeptine?
Tianeptine is a tricyclic compound originally developed for depression and anxiety. While it is prescribed in parts of Europe and Asia, it is not approved by the FDA in the U.S. Due to its opioid receptor activity, tianeptine produces euphoric effects at high doses, similar to other opioids. In the U.S., it is often sold as a “dietary supplement” despite its high abuse potential.
How Tianeptine Affects the Brain and Body
At therapeutic doses (in countries where prescribed):
- May help with mood regulation
- Has mild antidepressant effects
At high doses (common in misuse):
- Opioid-like euphoria
- Sedation and pain relief
- Physical dependence
- Severe withdrawal symptoms
- Respiratory depression
The addictive properties of tianeptine stem from its ability to bind to the same receptors as heroin and morphine, despite being marketed as a “legal high.”
Tianeptine Use and Abuse Statistics
- Tianeptine is not FDA-approved in the U.S. and is banned in several states due to its abuse potential.
- Poison control centers in the U.S. reported a fourfold increase in tianeptine-related calls between 2014 and 2017.
- The CDC has issued multiple warnings about tianeptine’s dangers, especially regarding overdose and severe withdrawal.
- Many users report taking hundreds of milligrams per day, far exceeding any therapeutic dose and risking opioid-level withdrawal.
Recognizing Tianeptine Addiction
Tianeptine misuse often begins with curiosity or a search for mood improvement but can rapidly evolve into addiction.
Common signs of tianeptine addiction include:
- Needing to take higher doses to feel normal
- Intense cravings or anxiety when unable to access the drug
- Severe withdrawal symptoms (similar to heroin or fentanyl)
- Purchasing from gas stations or sketchy online retailers
- Using it in secret or outside of recommended doses
- Isolation, loss of motivation, or mood swings
Daily Challenges of Tianeptine Addiction
Tianeptine dependence can be both mentally and physically overwhelming:
- Needing constant redosing to avoid withdrawal
- Fear of running out or facing painful symptoms
- Mood instability and emotional dysregulation
- Strained relationships or isolation
- Financial pressure to maintain a constant supply
- Shame or confusion about “legal” products causing addiction
Because of how it’s marketed, many users underestimate how dangerous tianeptine truly is. Our role is to bring clarity and support with nonjudgmental, evidence-based care.
How We Treat Tianeptine Addiction at Lanier Recovery Center
At Lanier Recovery Center, we create individualized treatment plans for clients struggling with tianeptine dependence. Our outpatient model allows flexibility while delivering the structure and therapeutic depth needed for lasting recovery.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHP includes full-day clinical care, medication oversight, group therapy, and intensive individual counseling. It is well-suited for individuals experiencing severe withdrawal or co-occurring disorders.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP provides 3–5 days per week of structured therapeutic care, including recovery planning, behavioral therapy, and peer support. It allows clients to continue work or school while receiving high-quality treatment.
Outpatient Program (OP)
Our OP model supports long-term healing with weekly counseling, case management, and relapse prevention. It’s ideal for those stepping down from higher levels of care or managing recovery with stable routines.
Therapies include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Individual and group counseling
- Trauma therapy (non-EMDR)
- Relapse prevention
- Psychiatric evaluation for mood stabilization
- Family education and support
We also coordinate with local detox facilities when medical tapering is necessary for clients with high levels of dependence.
Why Choose Lanier Recovery Center?
- Clinical experience with emerging and underregulated substances like tianeptine
- Outpatient treatment that meets real-world needs and schedules
- Ethical, personalized care grounded in respect and trust
- Dual-diagnosis expertise for clients with anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Supportive team culture that models empathy and recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tianeptine legal in Georgia?
As of 2023, tianeptine is banned in Georgia and several other states. It is not FDA-approved and is classified as a dangerous substance due to its abuse potential.
How is tianeptine withdrawal treated?
Withdrawal can include anxiety, depression, body aches, insomnia, and cravings. In some cases, medically supervised tapering or detox is needed. We work closely with trusted medical providers and tailor aftercare plans accordingly.
Can I just stop taking tianeptine cold turkey?
Abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Always seek clinical support when trying to stop use.
Does insurance cover tianeptine treatment?
Yes. We work with most insurance plans and can verify your benefits during your initial assessment.
Start Recovery from Tianeptine Dependence Today
You are not alone, and help is available. At Lanier Recovery Center in Atlanta, we offer clinically informed, nonjudgmental outpatient treatment for tianeptine addiction. Contact us today to begin your journey toward healing, clarity, and a substance-free life.
