In the near future, I intend to introduce legislation to prohibit the sale, possession and manufacture of tianeptine, which our media commonly refers to as “gas station heroin” due to its common availability at service stations and other retail establishments in the United States.  The ingestion of this drug, which is classified as an antidepressant, causes users to experience a sense of euphoria that compares to heroin and other opioids.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that like opioids, tianeptine is extremely harmful and addictive.  As a result of its abuse potential and other safety risks, the FDA does not approve tianeptine for any medical use. 
 
As you are undoubtedly aware, overdose deaths have skyrocketed in our nation in recent years.  According to the FDA, tianeptine has been linked to hundreds of overdoses and deaths.  As the use of this drug becomes more prevalent, it is imperative that we act to protect our constituents and prohibit the trafficking of this dangerous substance on our streets.  Numerous states, including Tennessee and Michigan, have recently passed laws that prohibit the sale and manufacture of this deadly substance.  I believe it is time that we do the same. 
 
Please consider joining me in cosponsoring this important piece of legislation. 
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 0998: P.L.233, No.64
Printer's No. 3708: P.L.233, No.64, P.L.233, NO.64