U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Cincinnati port intercepted two shipments on February 7 containing the illegal substance tianeptine. The seized quantity totaled nine pounds, violating the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).
Tianeptine is not approved for use in the United States. Despite its approval in other countries, some corporations claim it can enhance brain function and treat various conditions such as anxiety, depression, pain, and opioid use disorder. However, these claims are considered dangerous and unproven.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported serious harmful effects from abusing or misusing tianeptine alone or with other drugs like antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. These effects include agitation, drowsiness, confusion, sweating, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, slowed or stopped breathing, coma, and death.
Despite FDA warnings to consumers about tianeptine's risks, vendors continue to market it online in tablet or powder form. The seized shipments originated from a manufacturer in Hong Kong and were destined for a residence in Lubbock, Texas. The domestic value of this drug exceeds $209,000 and is under investigation.
“Our officers are exceptional at what they do and are part of the best frontline defense in the world,” said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations-Chicago Field Office. “The interception of this chemical compound is definitely significant as it prevented dangerous drugs from entering our communities and possibly causing harm to innocent people.”
CBP operates at ports of entry across the United States to screen international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted products. As America's largest law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel, CBP aims to enhance national safety through collaboration and innovation.
