What is Zaza? AKA: Gas Station Heroin

What To Know Before We Begin

"Zaza" can mean two different things. In casual conversation it may refer to cannabis. ZaZa has also been used as a brand name for products containing tianeptine, a drug sometimes called "gas station heroin."

The nickname is misleading: tianeptine is not heroin. It is not approved by the FDA for any medical use in the United States, and FDA has linked tianeptine products to serious harm, overdoses and death. FDA: Tianeptine risks

A slang term or a package name cannot reliably tell you what a product contains. If someone has used an unknown product and is becoming unwell, respond to the symptoms rather than relying on its name.

In this article, we will explore what tianeptine is, the risks of gas station heroin, the signs of tianeptine dependence, and the treatment options, so that you can make an informed decision about your health.

What is Zaza (Tianeptine)?

Tianeptine is a drug approved for certain uses in some other countries, but it is not FDA-approved for any medical use in the United States. FDA also states that it does not meet the definition of a dietary ingredient.

Despite this, tianeptine products are still being found in gas stations and convenience stores, and online. Hence the street name "gas station heroin". Products may claim to improve mood, energy, pain, or concentration. Those claims do not establish safety or effectiveness. FDA: Tianeptine risks

People struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, or chronic pain may be tempted to use tianeptine to self-medicate their symptoms. FDA advises avoiding tianeptine products and seeking professional help for the conditions people may be trying to treat.

How do you tell which zaza someone means? Ask what product was taken, and keep the packaging or a photograph for healthcare professionals. A labeled tianeptine product is different from someone using "zaza" as a casual term for cannabis. Labeling cannot prove that a product is accurately formulated or uncontaminated, so do not taste it or take more to identify it.

The risks of gas station heroin

Gas station heroin is a dangerous drug. FDA reports serious effects associated with tianeptine products, including agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, slowed or stopped breathing, coma, and death. Dependence and withdrawal can occur.

Product quality and contents may be uncertain, and the substance itself carries serious risks. FDA: Tianeptine risks

If someone is unconscious, cannot be awakened, is having seizures, or has breathing difficulty, call 911 immediately. If opioid overdose is suspected, give naloxone if available and follow emergency instructions. Emergency care remains necessary even if symptoms improve. CDC: Responding to an overdose

For suspected poisoning without an immediate life-threatening symptom, contact Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States. Tell them the product, amount if known, timing, other substances, and symptoms. Do not induce vomiting.

To protect yourself from the risks posed by this drug, it is important to seek professional help if you are struggling to stop using it.

Tianeptine abuse and addiction

Tianeptine misuse can become a severe problem. Regular use can lead to tolerance, requiring the user to take higher doses for the same effect. These larger amounts can increase the risk of overdose and other dangerous effects.

Common signs of tianeptine misuse include changes in sleep patterns, loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and change in mood or behavior. When someone stops using tianeptine after long-term use, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, abdominal cramps, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, or fainting spells. These symptoms can last for days or even weeks and should be monitored by medical professionals.

Tell a clinician how much you use, how often, and what happens when you miss a dose. Bring the packaging. Withdrawal symptoms and other substances may affect what level of care is appropriate.

If you think you might be dependent on this substance, it is important that you seek professional help. With the right treatment program and support system in place, there is hope for recovery.

Treatment options for tianeptine abuse and addiction

Treatment options are available to help those struggling with this drug. There is no FDA-approved medication specifically for tianeptine use disorder. Treatment decisions may draw on clinical experience and limited reports; that is different from proving that a particular medication reliably treats everyone.

Do not use borrowed Suboxone, alcohol, or sedatives to manage withdrawal yourself.

Therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or dialectical behavioral therapy can help address underlying issues that may have led to tianeptine use in the first place. Therapists can work with individuals to develop healthier coping skills and identify triggers that could lead to relapse. Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous or other 12-step programs can also provide social and emotional support for people in recovery.

For those who need more intensive care, there are inpatient treatment programs that provide a comprehensive approach, including 24/7 medical care, individual therapy sessions, group counseling sessions, recreational activities, holistic therapies, and spiritual counseling sessions. Outpatient treatment programs offer more flexibility for those who do not need a full-time residential program but still need some level of structure and support.

No matter the treatment option chosen, help is available. It is important for those struggling with tianeptine to find a professional they trust and seek out appropriate resources so they can begin their recovery.

Getting help with tianeptine

FindTreatment.gov can help you locate substance use services. Confirm that a clinician can assess tianeptine exposure rather than assuming every opioid telehealth practice treats it.

If symptoms are urgent, use local emergency or poison-control services instead of waiting for an online appointment.

Start Suboxone treatment online. Our online Suboxone doctors see patients by video visit. The first visit is $89. Follow-up visits are $50 weekly, $75 every two weeks or $89 monthly. Visits are cash pay, and medication is priced separately.