RALEIGH, N.C. — State House lawmakers unanimously approved a bill banning a substance known as "gas station heroin."
The bill would classify tianeptine as similar to drugs like fentanyl, cocaine, and meth.
The substance is the main ingredient in “Red Zaza” and similar products, widely sold at smoke shops. The FDA has not approved the drug — it's not even regulated.
Scientists say tolerance to it occurs rapidly and users might take 100 times the recommended dosage. Standard bottles have 15 capsules – the serving size is 1 capsule. Experts say it's not unusual for a user to ingest multiple bottles a day.
In May, WFMY News 2's Chad Silber met a local woman whose son was addicted to Red Zaza for years.
"At one time, I've even heard him call that drug his master," reflected Monica, who thought she was in the clear when they helped her son get off heroin.
It started with pawning things he, his spouse, and their child owned - and blowing his paycheck.
"The withdrawals are awful, very bad muscle and bone aches," Monica said.
The problem is so bad that 12 states have banned the substance.
We've reached out to the parent company of Red Zaza to ask them about this troubling trend but haven’t heard back.
The state Senate will consider the bill next.
If approved, it heads to the governor's desk.
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