Tianeptine: What Parents Should Know
Sold under names like “ZaZa,” “Neptune’s Fix,” and “Pegasus,” tianeptine is an opioid-like drug posing as a supplement. It can cause addiction, withdrawal, and overdose.
Acts at opioid receptors. Tianeptine behaves as a μ-opioid receptor agonist—the same target as oxycodone and heroin—explaining its addictive properties.1–2
Poisonings and ER visits rising. CDC and state alerts report severe cases involving coma, seizures, and respiratory failure, often reversed with naloxone.3,6
Dependence and withdrawal mirror opioids. Chronic users experience anxiety, tremors, sweating, insomnia, and GI distress; cases improve with medical detox or buprenorphine therapy.6–7
Not an FDA-approved drug in the U.S. FDA warns that tianeptine is being sold illegally as a supplement and has no recognized safe use.8
Parent Playbook
What to watch for. Small boxes or blister packs labeled ZaZa, Neptune’s Fix, or Pegasus. Symptoms include sedation, slowed breathing, pinpoint pupils, confusion, and withdrawal agitation.3–5
Where it’s sold. Gas stations, smoke shops, and online “nootropic” stores. Labels claim “mood booster” or “natural energy,” but ingredients are unregulated.
If someone collapses or turns blue: Call 911 and administer naloxone (Narcan) if available. For guidance, contact Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.
How to talk about it. “Tianeptine acts like an opioid, even though it’s marketed as a supplement. I’m worried about safety — let’s learn what doctors and the FDA say together.”
Images: FDA Warnings & Product Examples
Images courtesy of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Public Domain.
