Nursing Implications for Tianeptine Use and Misuse

Tianeptine is an atypical antidepressant that is not approved for use in the United States and has a significant potential for abuse. In recent years, illicit use and misuse of tianeptine have become increasingly common. Symptoms caused by illicit use and withdrawal from tianeptine have become an emerging public health concern. Nurses should be aware of serious or even fatal opiate-like intoxication or withdrawal symptoms, which may present in the absence of a positive urine drug screen or in cases where withdrawal does not follow expected patterns. The associated health effects of tianeptine exposure and misuse include neurologic, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal symptoms, which manifest in a similar manner to opioid toxicity and opioid withdrawal syndrome. People who illicitly use or misuse tianeptine should be educated regarding the risks associated with this drug. In addition, nurses should promote screening, intervention, and referral to treatment for this and other substance use disorders. Nurses should also support efforts to control access to products containing tianeptine.