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CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.

OtherAdvancedHigh Risk

Tianeptine

Also known as: Stablon, Coaxil, Tatinol

Tianeptine is an atypical antidepressant prescribed in Europe, Asia, and Latin America under various brand names. While it has legitimate clinical efficacy for depression and anxiety, it also acts as a mu-opioid receptor agonist at higher doses, leading to significant abuse potential and a growing number of dependence cases worldwide.

Evidence65/100 — Moderate

Risk Level

High Risk

Difficulty

Advanced
CAS Number66981-73-5
Molecular FormulaC21H25ClN2O4S
ClassOther
CategoryNootropics

Mechanism of Action

At therapeutic doses, tianeptine enhances serotonin reuptake (opposite of SSRIs), modulates glutamatergic signaling, and promotes neuroplasticity through BDNF-dependent mechanisms in the hippocampus and amygdala. At higher doses, it acts as a full agonist at mu-opioid receptors (MOR) and delta-opioid receptors, producing euphoria and analgesia. This opioid activity is responsible for its abuse liability and withdrawal syndrome.

Dosing Research

Therapeutic dose: 12.5 mg three times daily (37.5 mg/day total). Sodium salt form acts faster; sulfate form (Stablon MR) allows twice-daily dosing at 25 mg. Half-life 2.5-3 hours (sodium), ~7 hours (sulfate). Abusers escalate to 100-500+ mg/day seeking opioid effects. Strict adherence to therapeutic dosing is critical.

Side Effects & Risks

HIGH RISK for abuse and dependence at supratherapeutic doses. At therapeutic doses: nausea, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, vivid dreams. At abuse doses: opioid-like withdrawal (muscle pain, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, depression). Several US states have scheduled tianeptine. Has caused deaths in overdose, especially combined with other substances. Regulated or prescription-only in most countries.

Research Studies

Disclaimer

CompoundIQ publishes research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider. Many compounds listed are research chemicals not approved for human use.

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