'Gas-Station Heroin' Sold as Dietary Supplement Raises Concerns Among Health Officials Tianeptine, available at convenience stores, smoke shops, and online, has opioid-like effects and is part of a growing group of substances that are challenging to regulate. A young father experienced severe symptoms after taking a shot-size bottle of a cherry-flavored elixir called Neptune's Fix, purchased at a local smoke shop. The bottle contained tianeptine, also known as "gas-station heroin." Tianeptine is often sold as a dietary supplement, promoted as a mood enhancer and focus aid, and is part of an unregulated category of potentially addictive products available at gas stations, convenience stores, and online. Some of these products, like kratom and phenibut, can be addictive and, in rare cases, fatal. The FDA has issued a nationwide alert about tianeptine, warning people not to take it due to its association with overdoses and deaths. Despite this, the agency's limited enforcement powers make it challenging to regulate these products effectively. Tianeptine, originally developed as an antidepressant, can produce euphoric effects at higher doses, similar to opioids. Many people mistakenly believe it is a safe alternative to street opioids or a way to taper off using them. Reports of tianeptine abuse and exposure have been increasing, with hospitals and poison-control centers struggling to keep track of cases. The challenge of regulating tianeptine and other supplements has sparked debate among regulatory experts, with some advocating for a strict registry of approved supplements. However, poison-center directors suggest that education about the risks of such products may be a more effective approach than a full ban. While the FDA's efforts to control the sale of tianeptine and similar substances face significant obstacles, the public continues to be at risk of exposure to these potentially harmful products.