Murphy signs bill scheduling tianeptine as Schedule II controlled substance in New Jersey
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy has signed legislation sponsored by Sen. Doug Steinhardt that classifies tianeptine, often referred to as “gas station heroin,” as a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance under New Jersey law.
The bill places tianeptine under stricter regulation, making its possession and sale subject to criminal penalties. The substance has been marketed and sold in gas stations and online as a dietary supplement, despite its opioid-like effects.
“The unethical marketing tactics used by companies to promote a dangerous substance like tianeptine has given a false sense of security to those looking for solutions to their mental and physical ailments,” said Sen. Steinhardt. “With this bill now becoming law, we’re removing these dangerous products from our retail shelves.”
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the New Jersey Poison Center has identified a cluster of poisoning cases involving tianeptine. Health officials say the substance has opioid-like effects and has been falsely marketed to consumers as a safe supplement.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has also reported a steady increase in adverse reactions linked to tianeptine exposure over the past two decades. The agency notes that tianeptine binds to and acts as an agonist at mu opioid receptors, producing effects similar to opioids and raising concerns about abuse, dependence and overdose.
