Are Kratom and Tianeptine the Same Thing?

Tianeptine is classified as a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) but has unique pharmacological properties compared to other TCAs. Tianeptine is known for its mood-enhancing and calming effects. Tianeptine is often associated with increased alertness and may even have cognitive-enhancing effects in some individuals.

However, it's important to note that without medical supervision, tianeptine users are highly prone to developing a dependency. Due to these risks, tianeptine is regulated in some countries and may require a prescription for legal use. It is not approved as a drug in the United States, so medical supervision is not available to consumers of this substance.

Tianeptine is a synthetic compound and does not come from a plant source. It is not derived from any natural plant material but is instead manufactured in laboratories. Tianeptine was first synthesized in the 1960s by the French Society of Medical Research.

Tianeptine has been dubbed "gas station heroin". This moniker has sometimes been applied to kratom as well, conflating the two very different substances.

Kratom products are all plant based. In Southeast Asian countries, fresh kratom leaves are harvested and chewed or brewed into a tea. This has been a traditional practice for hundreds of years. Very few adverse events have been reported from using kratom in a traditional, low dose way. However, physical dependency has been reported even in traditional use.

Kratom leaves are also dried, ground, and sold in powder form, most commonly in the US. This can also be brewed into a tea or swallowed, sometimes in capsule form. Kratom tends to increase energy but also helps the consumer relax.

Kratom alkaloid extract products - either in powder or liquid form - are sometimes highly concentrated and should be consumed with a strong awareness of the risks. Most adverse kratom-related evens occur from interactions with other substances. Kratom consumed in extremely high doses- usually from over-consumption of extract products - can lead to toxic adverse events.

Inaccurate or incomplete information about these substances is sometimes presented in media reports due to a lack of expertise or understanding of the complex scientific, medical, and social issues surrounding these substances.

Addressing these issues requires responsible journalism that prioritizes accurate information, scientific evidence, and a nuanced understanding of the social and legal contexts in which legal psychoactive substances are used. Balanced reporting can help promote informed discussions, reduce stigma, and contribute to public health education about these substances.