By In New Jersey, a state beleaguered by liberal governance, a perilous drug known as “gas station heroin” is wreaking havoc, with health officials – even those with conservative leanings – raising alarms.
Products like Neptune’s Elixir and ZaZa Red, masquerading as dietary supplements, are being peddled right under our noses in corner stores and online.
From June to November 2023, New Jersey witnessed a shocking surge in tianeptine-induced illnesses, with 20 severe cases reported. This drug, a tricyclic antidepressant not sanctioned by the FDA, is being irresponsibly marketed as a remedy for pain, anxiety, depression, and even as a mental booster.
Alarmingly, tianeptine, exploiting opioid receptors, can mimic heroin’s high and its devastating side effects. Dr. David Campbell, a clinical expert from Oregon, highlights the drug’s addictive nature and its easy availability, which even endangers our youth.
In many forms – pills, powders, salts, or liquids – tianeptine’s presence is widespread, a fact lamented by Dr. Adam Scioli from Philadelphia. Patients often suffer intense withdrawal, akin to opioid addiction, needing serious medication-assisted treatments.
The liberal oversight allowing such substances in everyday stores is baffling and dangerous. The widespread misconception that availability equals safety is gravely misleading and can lead to fatal consequences.
Dr. Scioli condemns tianeptine as a substance of abuse. Its overdose can lead to seizures, electrolyte imbalance, and even death. The severe withdrawal symptoms, including respiratory failure and overdose, are a stark reminder of its danger.
In 2023, the FDA finally issued a warning against products containing tianeptine, citing severe adverse events including seizures and hospitalizations. Yet, the regulatory response has been sluggish and inadequate.
Some states, recognizing the threat, have banned tianeptine. However, certain companies continue to sell these products, exploiting regulatory loopholes and endangering consumers.
The FDA’s delayed action and the lack of stringent regulations have paved the way for another drug epidemic. Until tianeptine is more rigorously controlled or banned, we must prioritize prevention and education, especially among the youth.
Mark Stovall from the American Addiction Centers urges a community-based approach. He encourages people to confront local stores selling these drugs and to engage local law enforcement. This grassroots activism is essential to combat the liberal inaction and protect our communities.
Parents and caregivers must also be vigilant. The easy access to such drugs online and in stores necessitates informed discussions with children and teens about the risks of drug experimentation.
Recently, Neptune Resources, LLC, initiated a voluntary recall of their tianeptine-laden products. However, the threat remains as other products may still contain the dangerous drug.
Fox News Digital’s inquiries to Neptune Resources, MRSS Inc., Super Chill Products, the FDA, and the New Jersey Department of Health highlight the urgency for a conservative response to this liberal health crisis.
