Tianeptine Addiction Treatment
(Zaza / Gas Station Heroin)
Tianeptine addiction is a growing crisis in North Carolina. This “gas station heroin” produces severe opioid-like dependence. Nova Transformations offers specialized, evidence-based treatment in Charlotte.
Get Help Now: (704) 997-3500⚠️ Warning: Tianeptine Withdrawal Can Be Dangerous
Do not attempt to quit tianeptine cold turkey. Severe withdrawal symptoms can occur within hours. Professional medical supervision is strongly recommended.
What Is Tianeptine?
Tianeptine is a drug sold in gas stations under brand names like Zaza Red, Tianna, TD Red, and Neptune’s Fix. While marketed as a “dietary supplement,” it acts on opioid receptors in the brain, producing heroin-like effects at high doses. It’s called “gas station heroin” because of its easy availability and dangerous addiction potential. The FDA has issued warnings about tianeptine products.
The Scope of the Problem
According to the CDC, poison control centers have reported a 30-fold increase in tianeptine-related calls since 2015. Multiple deaths have been attributed to tianeptine, particularly when combined with other substances.
Why Is Tianeptine So Addictive?
Tianeptine acts as a full mu-opioid receptor agonist—the same receptor activated by heroin, morphine, and fentanyl. Research published by the National Institutes of Health confirms its opioid-like properties. Key addiction factors include:
- Rapid tolerance: Users quickly escalate from 3-4 pills to 10+ bottles per day
- Short half-life: Effects wear off in 2-4 hours, requiring constant redosing
- Easy availability: Sold legally at gas stations in most states
- Perceived safety: “Supplement” labeling hides true risks
Signs of Tianeptine Addiction
Escalating Use
Needing more pills daily. Going from 1-2 bottles to multiple bottles per day.
Frequent Dosing
Taking tianeptine every 2-4 hours. Setting alarms to dose through the night.
Financial Problems
Spending $50-$200+ per day. Depleting savings, missing bills.
Supply Obsession
Visiting multiple gas stations. Stockpiling products. Panic when running low.
Tianeptine Withdrawal Symptoms
Tianeptine withdrawal is severe—often described as worse than heroin withdrawal:
- Severe anxiety, panic attacks, agitation
- Profuse sweating and chills
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Intense muscle aches and cramping
- Insomnia lasting 3-5 days
- Severe depression and suicidal thoughts
- Intense cravings
Withdrawal Timeline:
- 6-12 hours: Early withdrawal begins
- 12-24 hours: Symptoms intensify
- Days 2-3: Peak withdrawal – most severe
- Days 4-5: Acute symptoms begin to subside
- Days 6-7: Physical symptoms resolve; psychological persist
- Weeks 2-4: Post-acute withdrawal continues
Tianeptine Treatment at Nova Transformations
Medical Detox Coordination
We partner with medical detox facilities for safe withdrawal management.
- 24/7 medical supervision
- Medication-assisted withdrawal
- Seamless transition to outpatient
Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
Intensive structured treatment for early recovery.
- 7 hours/day, 5 days/week
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy & peer support
Medication-Assisted Treatment
FDA-approved medications to reduce cravings. Learn more from SAMHSA.
- Suboxone (buprenorphine)
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
- Ongoing medication management
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Treating underlying anxiety and depression.
- Anxiety disorder treatment
- Depression treatment
- Trauma/PTSD therapy
Related Resources
Other Addictions We Treat
Our Programs
External Resources
Break Free from Tianeptine Addiction Today
You don’t have to face withdrawal alone. Our team is ready to help with evidence-based treatment and medication support.
Available 24/7 | Most Insurance Accepted | Matthews, NC
