What Is Tianeptine?
The main ingredient in Neptune’s Fix products, tianeptine is an atypical tricyclic antidepressant used in various countries to treat major depressive disorder. Initially developed in the 1980s, it differs molecularly and mechanistically from other antidepressants and affects the opioid receptors. Other countries have approved tianeptine for its antidepressant properties. However, the drug is not approved for use in the United States and is often sold at convenience stores, vape shops, and online retailers.
What Are the Effects of Neptune’s Fix?
Tianeptine is often marketed as an all-natural supplement that can address anxiety and chronic pain. Neptune products claim that they are a safe alternative to opioids leading many people to believe it is a harmless option for managing anxiety and pain. However, that’s far from the truth.
The effects of Neptune’s Fix can include:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Liver and kidney damage
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
When Neptune’s Fix is combined with prescription medication and other substances, these effects are often heightened and unpredictable.
Neptune’s Fix Products Recalled by FDA
Neptune’s Fix products include their elixir, extra strength elixir, and tablets with flavors ranging from cherry, lemon, and chocolate.
Poison control center cases involving tianeptine topped 150 in 2020 alone, up from 11 cases between 2000 and 2013. As of 2024, there is a battle going on between the Neptune brand, counterfeit tianeptine brands, and the FDA. The Neptune brand claims that counterfeit vials containing tianeptine, synthetic cannabinoids, and even kava are the products to blame for the surge in the recent surge of seizures and hospitalizations.
The Food and Drug Administration has issued numerous warnings urging consumers against purchasing or using Neptune’s Fix or any tianeptine product as it has been linked to serious health risks and not approved for medical use. Most recently, the manufacturer of Neptune’s Fix has voluntarily recalled their products, and the FDA is conducting an investigation.
How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to Neptune’s Fix?
How long it takes to get addicted to tianeptine depends on how duration of use, the dosage, how frequently it’s been used, and other factors. Some individuals may experience signs of dependence relatively quickly, while others may take longer.
Withdrawal from tianeptine can be particularly challenging, often mirroring the symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal. This can include gastrointestinal distress, excessive sweating, agitation, and elevated vital signs. The initial withdrawal symptoms can last 5 to 7 days but post-acute withdrawal can last for weeks or months.
It’s important to note that tianeptine withdrawal can be physically and emotionally taxing, and individuals seeking to discontinue use should consult with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective tapering plan.
Unfortunately, the FDA cannot easily regulate dangerous supplements in the US such as tianeptine. But it’s crucial to learn about the risks of this substance and understand that help is always available. Learn about Neptune’s Fix addiction treatment here.