On this episode of Wellness Unmasked, Dr. Nicole Saphier dives into the growing dangers of Tianeptine, often called “gas station heroin,” and why it’s becoming a major public health concern—especially for teenagers and young adults.

After hearing firsthand about a young woman’s battle with addiction, Dr. Saphier breaks down what tianeptine is, how it works on opioid receptors, why it’s being sold legally in gas stations and smoke shops, and the alarming rise in poison center calls, overdoses, and rehab admissions tied to the drug.

She also explains the FDA’s warnings, the regulatory loopholes allowing products like Neptune's Fix and ZaZa Red to stay on shelves, and what parents need to watch for to protect their kids.

This is an urgent conversation about addiction, mental health, and why “legal” doesn’t always mean safe. A must-listen for parents, caregivers, and anyone concerned about America’s evolving drug crisis.