SearchUses, Side Effects, & Risks of This Addictive Prescription Drug
Tianeptine: What Is It?
Tianeptine is a prescription medication used in Europe, Asia, and Latin America to treat conditions like depression, pain, asthma, and anxiety. It is not currently legal in the United States and is not yet approved by the FDA to treat depression and other disorders.
In small doses, tianeptine is typically safe and has the ability to boost a person’s mood. In large doses, however, this drug can work like an opioid and cause an intense high. Because of the euphoria it can cause, tianeptine is sometimes misused and taken for recreational purposes.
Side Effects of Using Tianeptine
Since tianeptine works like an opioid in high doses, it can cause similar side effects. Someone who takes a high dose of tianeptine may experience drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach aches, and other related side effects.
Of course, tianeptine also comes with a high risk of misuse and abuse. People who use tianeptine long-term are likely to become dependent on the drug. If someone suddenly stops taking tianeptine or drastically decreases their dose, it is likely that they will experience symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms typically mimic the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Side effects of tianeptine withdrawal may include appetite loss, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, fever, confusion, cramps, depression, dizziness, worsened depression, headaches, moodiness, insomnia, moodiness, suicidal ideation, tremors, diarrhea, yawning, and more.
Tianeptine Risks & Warnings
People who take tianeptine are also at a high risk for overdosing. If someone takes too much of this drug, they could end up in a coma or potentially die. Tianeptine can also cause serious interactions and should not be mixed with alcohol, Aspirin, or sedative drugs.
For some users, taking any dose of tianeptine is extremely unsafe. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use tianeptine because of its ability to cause addiction. People with a history of substance abuse issues should also avoid using tianeptine.
Alternatives to Tianeptine
There are many alternatives to tianeptine that are much less addictive. If you are struggling with depression or anxiety but don’t want to risk taking an addictive medication, talk to your doctor about the best option for you.
If you have become dependent on tianeptine, you may benefit from inpatient or outpatient treatment. During treatment, you will both detox from the drug and develop coping mechanisms to help you start feeling like yourself again with tianeptine. Treatment methods may include counseling, CBT, exercise routines, nutrition guidance, and more.
To learn more about tianeptine and its potential risks or if you are seeking treatment for tianeptine abuse, contact our team of substance abuse treatment specialists for additional information. Give us a call at 267.209.7313.
